Three Potential Destinations for Ilya Kovalchuk

Ilya Kovalchuk was once the most prolific goal scorer in the NHL. While the times have certainly changed, the Russian veteran is still trying to stay on in the NHL and is willing to wait for the perfect opportunity to come his way.

Last season Kovalchuk finished with 26 points in 46 games, divided up between the LA Kings, Montreal Canadiens and Washington Capitals. With the Capitals not currently interested in bringing him back, Kovalchuk is sitting, waiting, and wishing for his next chance. 

Three Potential Destinations for Ilya Kovalchuk:

Pittsburgh Penguins: The Penguins are very thin on their right side as Kasperi Kapanen is now their first-line right-winger. With Bryan Rust sitting on the second line with Evgeni Malkin, perhaps GM Jim Rutherford brings in Kovalchuk to play with Malkin. The Pens also have a horrible second Power-Play, adding a shooter could help.

Colorado Avalanche: The Avs are built on speed and skill, and he's certainly not the fastest skater anymore, but Kovalchuk could be a nice veteran compliment on a very young team. Adding a piece like Kovalchuk gives the Avs some secondary scoring, and Joe Sakic is such a good GM, he could probably get Kovalchuk to agree to play for free.

Boston Bruins: The Bruins missed out on Taylor Hall and Mike Hoffman appears to want too much money, insert Kovalchuk. Boston plays a physical game, and Kovalchuk bangs it around more than people give him credit for. While the first-line in Boston is occupied, the 37-year-old is just looking for a place to contend for a Cup. Boston is that place.

Ilya Kovalchuk won't be signing a long-term deal, it will be a one-year deal for around the league minimum, and that's totally fine by him. He's already made almost $70 million in his career, Kovy just wants a Cup! He continues to train in Florida, where he lives, and is ready when his number is called. 

If these three teams don't come calling, maybe the team down the street will. 

Photo credit: Jeanine Leech/Icon Sportswire