One of the premiere players in the NHL & the world, Ilya Kovalchuk has every right to be mentioned in the game’s elite group of players. The man from Atlanta has accumulated 327 career goals, and much of those without a legitimate centre man. In addition, he has won a Rocket Richard Trophy in 2003-04, played in three All-Star games, and is on pace to reach the 50 goal plateau for the third time in his career. As Christopher Carmichael of The Upper Deck Blog writes, “He is seemingly the second most dynamic goal scorer in the game today behind only Alexander Ovechkin.” Considering his incredible accolades and talent, one would assume Kovalchuk would be anointed the franchise player for the Atlanta Thrahsers and receive a contract to match. However as the Olympic Roster Freeze date and the NHL trade deadline come closer, the “Superman from the South” is still without a contract extension. The Upper Deck Blog gives five scenarios to what may happen to number 17 in the coming months. To see Christopher Carmichael’s player spotlight on Ilya Kovalchuk, please visit this link.
