Teammate says Kovalchuk could wind up staying with Devils
STEVE SOLDWEDEL With Ilya Kovalchuk himself saying "I really like it" here, at least one of his new Devils teammates wouldn't be surprised if he signed to stay with the team after this season.
Fellow Russian Danius Zubrus told NJ.com “I wouldn’t be shocked if he liked it enough to stay here.”
Devils notes: Ilya Kovalchuk talk
Ilya talk There hasn’t been much time since his trade a week ago for Ilya Kovalchuk to get settled in New Jersey, let alone think about whether he wants to make a long-term commitment to the organization and pass on becoming an unrestricted free agent July 1. His agent, Jay Grossman, would not discuss Wednesday whether he would be willing to talk contract with Devils general manager Lou Lamoriello before the regular season ends. Regardless, it appears any discussions would wait at least until after the Olympic break.
Devils get dropped, now they might shop The trade market finally is open, but these Devils need not worry. They're safe unless someone wants players who don't score.
They Devils have managed 10 regulation goals, including an empty-netter, in their past eight games. Even with Martin Brodeur in net, that's a losing formula.
NJ Devils cut winger Brendan ShanahanRich Chere/The Star-Ledger
There was speculation as to the status of veteran right winger Brendan Shanahan, who did not take part in Thursday morning's Devils practice.
A New But Old Beginning In JerseyThe New Jersey Devils have turned the clock back a bit bringing back former coach Jacques Lemaire to direct them once again from behind the bench.
This really changes nothing for a Devils team so focused on defence. While they've tried to open things up a bit in Jersey, the trap, and the stigma that has been linked to this team for over a decade, is back in full force and that could mean trouble for teams in the East.
Havelid to Play in SwedenNorthJersey.com is reporting that UFA to be Niclas Havelid has left the NHL and signed with Linkoping of the Swedish Elite League. The 36-year old was scheduled to become an unrestricted free agent on July 1st. Havelid played in 78 games this season, splitting time between the Atlanta Thrashers and New Jersey Devils. He finished the season with two goals and 17 assists. He also added one assist in seven playoff games with the Devils. Havelid was originally drafted in the third round, 83rd overall by the Anaheim Ducks in the 1999 NHL Entry Draft.
New Jersey Devils Rumors NJ.com is reporting that the Devils may have interest in several big names heading into the trade deadline.
