NHL Draft 2018: 5 moves we totally loved

3. Ilya Kovalchuk Is Back

A huge surprise happened early in the second day of the NHL Draft 2018. Earlier this year, KHL forward Ilya Kovalchuk announced his intentions to return to the NHL after a five-year hiatus.

Nothing can be official until July 1, but it was announced during the draft that the Russian star has agreed in principle to a three-year deal with the Los Angeles Kings.

Kovalchuk is one of the best players in the world. Back when he was in the NHL, he regularly posted impressive stats. Over his 816 game career, Kovalchuk has 816 points (417 goals and 399 assists). While he is 35 years old, he’s still an impressive player.

The Kings clearly believe in him, as his deal is reportedly worth $6.25 million per season.

LA is taking a huge risk with Kovalchuk. Remember, this is the same guy who retired from the NHL just three seasons into a 15-year deal with the New Jersey Devils so he could play in the KHL. Kovalchuk could easily do that again.

And if he doesn’t play out his entire contract, because he’s over 35 years old, the Kings would be responsible for the duration of his contract.

Not everyone is thrilled about Kovalchuk returning to the NHL. But you can’t please all of the people all of the time.

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