SwimCoach

I never in my wildest imagination thought Lou would ever get a player of Kovalchuk's status. But I guess with Brodeurs career winding down toward the end Lou would really like to get another Stanley Cup and I believe this was the absolute right move to do that. Ilya Kovalchuk gives us the best chance at making this happen! Why? Great questions ...

Ilya Kovalchuk is hands down (I will not debate this) a top 5 scoring forward in the NHL with the likes of Ovechkin, Crosby, and Malkin. In Atlanta he did not have the team structure or cooperation to compete for the ultimate prize and in NJ he most certainly will. And I believe Ilya Kovalchuk knows it. And he knows it very well!

Even Brodeur was happy with this trade as he expressed towards the NJ Star Ledger: "He's up there with (Alex) Ovechkin as far as how he is able to release a shot and how hard it comes," Brodeur said. "There aren't many guys in the league who are able to shoot it like that. That says it all, how he's been scoring goals at a great pace since he started in this league."

I think the Devils will be a very tough team to face come playoff time and as long as they focus on their strengths and have some chemistry the Devils are an instant contender.

I will say I was more upset about losing Niclas Bergfors. I think he is a young talented player who has a knack for the puck. He will be missed but I wish Bergfors nothing but success.

CityGuy

Well he has not scored a goal yet but I really do enjoy his stick handling skills and his smooth skating. He should be able to find the net shortly at least I am hoping. I don't think there is chemistry quit yet with him and his line mates.

SwimCoach

I don't wanna bash Kovalchuk yet but since the Devils acquired him we are now 1-3. Devils need to get back to what they do best and if Kovalchuk figures it out along the way so be it. But not have Parise in this most recent game against the Flyers really hurt.

CityGuy

i heard a rumor Ilya Kovalchuk may head to Colorado Avalanche .. did any one else hear this or was I dreaming ...

TheMan

I think both him and Paul Martin will be gone. They are both excellent players and will be missed but I see them moving on to other organizations.

CityGuy

I think Ilya is a piece of crap for dragging this whole thing out. It is reminding me of the LeBron James situation. Just because their both great athletes does not give them the right to toy with a cities fans.

PaullyInNYC

Well after the long wait I am glad to see Ilya Kovalchuk is deciding to return to the Devils. He truly give us a much needed offensive weapon and this time around he will be a Devil for a long time. I would still like to see the confirmation on what his salary situation stands but either way he definitely makes this team that much better.

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