OFFICIAL: Ilya Kovalchuk, Anssi Salmela to New Jersey Devils for Johnny Oduya, Niclas Bergfors, Patrice Cormier and a 1st Round Pick
by John Fischer on Feb 4, 2010 9:29 PM EST
in Devils Issues & Views
181 comments
It's been firing on Twitter and now TSN has this short post up saying that reports indicate that Atlanta forward Ilya Kovalchuk will be traded to the New Jersey Devils. TSN reports the deal is Kovalchuk for Johnny Oduya, Nicklas Bergfors, Patrice Cormier, and a 1st round pick.
CRUCIAL UPDATE: Per @BenThrashers, here's the press release from Atlanta's website about the trade. I'd call that official!
UPDATE AGAIN: Both teams also swapped second round picks for the 2010 draft, per Gulitti.
2010 2nd Round Pick
for
prospect Patrice Cormier, a 2010 1st Round Pick, and a 2010 2nd Round Pick.
There are no details yet on the actual terms of the deal, nor is there any official confirmation. But given that the sources are coming from reporters such as Bob McKenzie, Kevin Allen, and Jeff Marek, it's likely going to happen. (UPDATE: And now TSN, of course UPDATE AGAIN: Now totally official)
I will update this post specifically once there is confirmation of the details TSN has details now AND if/when it becomes official. Please comment on how you feel about Kovalchuk becoming a Devil. Please do not post speculation, if you hear something, provide a link with it so we're all aware. Deal is official, share your thoughts!
And remember, as of now, nothing is official just yet. But if this holds true, I'm ecstatic.
MINI-UPDATE #1: NHL.com is comfortable reporting the reports. That should be a good sign for this actually happening. Now, what are the details? It's not clear, I'm reading different packages online.
INITIAL SHORT REACTION TO TSN'S REPORT: Not Clarkson? Not Tedenby? Not Josefson? That's it? NEVER DOUBT LOU. Lou just FLEECED Atlanta...if true.
INITIAL LONGER REACTION: Oh, man, oh man, oh man oh man. Combined with the fact that Gulitti reported that Patrik Elias was back practicing (no, he won't play tomorrow, according to Lemaire), I'm getting all kinds of crazy ideas on how to use Kovalchuk. Do you pair him on the right side with Parise and Zajac? Do you keep him on the left side and rock Elias at center and Rolston on the other wing? Does the power play now go to five forwards?
Basically, the Devils just traded a talented defenseman who has been underperforming after signing his big contract with the team in the past summer (Oduya), a rookie forward who has hit the wall in the worst way and hasn't been able to get back on track in over a month (Bergfors), a prospect center who's been suspended for elbowing a player in the face and had upside of a two-way center to begin with (Cormier), and a first round pick that will be late anyway. All this for one of the best pure snipers in hockey.
Lou Lamoriello rules. More later after further official confirmation.
LONG TERM QUESTIONS: Does Oduya's $3.5 million clear up enough space to retain Paul Martin? Are we happy of a top four of Greene, Salvador, Mottau, and White? How much do we pray that Martin comes back 100% healthy and stays healthy? Does Anssi Salmela push Mark Fraser on that #6 spot on the blueline? With a month to go, do the Devils make further trades for a defenseman to boost the blueline or do they clear space to try and keep Kovalchuk? Do we go and buy #17 jerseys for Kovalchuk?
A LAST REACTION NOW THAT IT'S OFFICIAL: Poor, poor, poor Atlanta Thrasher fans. Don Waddell just traded one of the league's best goal scorers, a offensive threat that literally comes at a premium, and throws in a young defenseman for Oduya, Bergfors, prospect Cormier, and a first round pick that's going to be late anyway. Talk about a surprisingly underwhelming return.
In my mind, this has to be seen as a rental first. Kovalchuk's going to demand and command a lot of money in the summer. He's young, he's frightfully good with the puck, and he has an instinct that is rare among hockey players: goal scoring. So unless Lou starts shedding cap space over the next month - yes, he has a month to make more deals - this is a bold step to get the team ready for a deep run. I admire the bold move, he provides a seriously skilled offensive dimension that few teams have in this league. I'm not even terribly worried that he's not a great defensive player because that can be taught (and will be in New Jersey) and other forwards can cover for him as needed.
The New Jersey Devils regardless have to start playing better hockey despite the trade, Kovalchuk alone isn't going to spark this team to greatness. However, he does provide a significant offensive threat, it's not like he was riding anyone's coattails in Atlanta for all these years. I will also say that the defense needs to be better, specifically Mike Mottau. Until Paul Martin returns and given their recent play, I'm worried that the blueline will still be prone to lethal errors on the ice. Sure, Kovalchuk gives the Devils another weapon to "respond" to those errors; but he's not going to be enough if the defense doesn't tighten up.
Getting Salmela in return is a nice throw-in and that's that. He should be competing on the third pairing at most, maybe he'll stay on as an "extra" defenseman. I'm more surprised that Waddell dealt more than just Kovalchuk.
I will say that once Elias (who's closer to returning, he did practice today, per Gulitti), Clarkson, and Martin are healthy, this Devils team looks scary-good on paper. Imagine this possible lineup for the skaters:
Parise-Zajac-Kovalchuk
Elias-Zubrus-Rolston
Pandolfo-Niedermayer-Clarkson
Pelley-McAmmond-Zharkov
Martin-Salvador
Greene-White
Mottau-Salmela/Fraser
Put Martin Brodeur behind that group and tell me that's not a contending team. Go ahead, try and tell me.
Lastly, per Gulitti, Kovalchuk will debut as a Devil tomorrow. Salmela should be available if needed. So much for these three games against Toronto becoming all too familiar, what with all the trades involved.
Outside Takes: Here's the initial reaction from the Atlanta perspective, The Falconer breaks down his quick take much more organized than this one at Bird Watchers Anonymous. For a more general take, Mike Chen has this reaction at From the Rink.
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I'm ecstatic
he Devils have never had a star or offensive player of Kovy’s calibur before and while we did give up some great value for him, I think we got a great deal. And losing Oduya who has been awful this season means we can maybe retain Martin.
No, not Mogilny
Mogilny was a marvelous offensive talent. Elias has been quietly terrific for many years, and Zach Parise has shown the potential to be the best player in franchise history. No offense to any of them, or others I have not named, but Ilya Kovalchuk is the best offensive player ever to don the Devils’ uniform.
They already had a player of Kovy's caliber...
Zach Parise is a top 10, maybe 5 foward in the league. However the last few cup winners all had 2 of those type of players on their team (Det with Datsyuk and Zetterberg, Pitt with Crosby and Malkin) so this still was a much needed addition and a trade I’d make all day.
Sodomize Intolerance
by sonicdeathmonkey on Feb 4, 2010 10:10 PM EST up reply actions
DETAILS
http://twitter.com/FriedmanHNIC
Friedman thinks its Oduya, Palmieri, Bergfors, and a first rounder.
Unconfirmed of course.
If this is true, I say Lou did good.
Thrilled!
Until I hear the terms at least.
However,give Lou and the Devils credit for being proactive and aiming high.
I don’t have any links and at this stage,it is all rumor,but the one package that I heard was Oduya,Bergfors, a prospect and a number one.
Depending on the prospect,that looks like a steal for the Devils,although Lou may not be finished and still could go after another defenseman after losing Oduya……
Check out my blog at thoughtsofrs@blogspot.com
CONFLICTING DETAILS
RDS reporting: Oduya, Bergfors, Tedenby and 1st round pick.
If this is it, then Lou RULES. But I’m not updating the main post until I see it.
Devils in my heart! Devils in my mind! Devils in my eyes! Devils until I die!
In Lou We Trust - The Devils SBN Blog
However....
McKenski reports Oduya, Bergfors, Tedenby and 1st round pick
http://twitter.com/TSNBobMcKenzie
agree
100%,if it took another Palmieri type to be tossed in to keep Tedenby,it would be worth it-IMO
Check out my blog at thoughtsofrs@blogspot.com
by Count Vertigo on Feb 4, 2010 8:13 PM EST up reply actions
I am extremely happy with acquiring Kovy. I think this is a new and exciting type of player for NJ to get. I know a lot of people weren’t happy with the idea of this from previous discussions, but I am really excited. There’s no doubt he will create a spark in the offensive end of things. Change isn’t always a good thing, but in this case I believe it is.
Mckenzie
just posted that it is Patrice Cormier and not Tedenby-hope that is true!
http://twitter.com/TSNBobMcKenzie
Check out my blog at thoughtsofrs@blogspot.com
Kevin Allen tweets....
Atlanta Thrashers receive Oduya, Bergfors, Patrice Cormier and a 1st-round pick for Kovalchuk
Devils in my heart! Devils in my mind! Devils in my eyes! Devils until I die!
In Lou We Trust - The Devils SBN Blog
Hey guys
If you can sign him to an unridiculous(yes, I know this word does not exist) deal, then congratulations are in order.
If not, I wish you the best of luck for this playoff run!
"I know not with what weapons World War III will be fought, but World War IV will be fought with sticks and stones."
Albert Einstein
by Say *plan the parade one more time*... on Feb 4, 2010 8:20 PM EST reply actions
yea they probably would have beat the caps all 4 times instead of just 3
by Imperator_Celtic on Feb 4, 2010 8:28 PM EST up reply actions
TSN IS REPORTING WHAT'S OUT THERE NOW
Initial post updated.
In a shorter word: WOW
Devils in my heart! Devils in my mind! Devils in my eyes! Devils until I die!
In Lou We Trust - The Devils SBN Blog
dude
Hand Lou Executive of the Year right now.
Thats highway robbery.
On the Forecheck is SB Nation's blog covering the Nashville Predators.
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ITS OFFICIAL!!
I LOVE LOU!
Kovalchuk for Oduya, Bergfors, Cormier, and a 1st rounder.
We also get Salmela back too! Lou undoes his mistake from last year.
Salmela?
Where have you seen this?
That would be really slick!!
Check out my blog at thoughtsofrs@blogspot.com
by Count Vertigo on Feb 4, 2010 8:31 PM EST up reply actions
Lou is a god amongst men. He’s still got it
Space Weed Says (Insert Generic quote about blog here)
"DO NOT get stuck behind Kyle Wellwood in the buffet line. This isn't really etiquette, but it will prevent you from starving to death"- Down Goes Brown on Etiquette for Jason Spezza's wedding
by Kevin Sellathamby on Feb 4, 2010 8:29 PM EST reply actions
"You got some chops, boy, but let me show you how to REALLY make a deal..."
There’s a reason why Burke is the student, and Lou is the master.
by Death_By_Leafs on Feb 4, 2010 8:49 PM EST up reply actions
Great deal for the Devils. And I am a Rangers fan haha (first post here by the way).
NEVER DOUBT LOU.
I wish I could never doubt Sather. Lou is amazing. This is terrific for you guys.
"Jaromir Jagr.... it's a POWER PLAY GOAL!"
- Sam Rosen
"Marian Gaborik.... it's a POWER PLAY GOAL!"
-Sam Rosen
Hence, In Lou We Trust
Space Weed Says (Insert Generic quote about blog here)
"DO NOT get stuck behind Kyle Wellwood in the buffet line. This isn't really etiquette, but it will prevent you from starving to death"- Down Goes Brown on Etiquette for Jason Spezza's wedding
by Kevin Sellathamby on Feb 4, 2010 8:31 PM EST up reply actions
really, really nice. I now, fully, understand.
"Jaromir Jagr.... it's a POWER PLAY GOAL!"
- Sam Rosen
"Marian Gaborik.... it's a POWER PLAY GOAL!"
-Sam Rosen
Thank John for the name, he’s the guy who started the blog
Space Weed Says (Insert Generic quote about blog here)
"DO NOT get stuck behind Kyle Wellwood in the buffet line. This isn't really etiquette, but it will prevent you from starving to death"- Down Goes Brown on Etiquette for Jason Spezza's wedding
by Kevin Sellathamby on Feb 4, 2010 8:39 PM EST up reply actions
Wow
Considering our 1st will be in the 20s, this surprises me.
I have respect for most sports fans with 2 exceptions: NY Ranger fans who grew up in New Jersey, and Dallas Cowboy fans who can't name the capital of Texas.
We're not signing him.
Lou has beasically said we’re going to win THIS year with this deal. We’re not signing Kovalchuk to 11.3 mil a year after this.
I’ve having Mogilny flashbacks already…. This looks very promising.
i cant belive cormier has been unloaded
wow what a great deal sucks for oduya and bergfors but wholey crap thats really nothing to trade for that amount of goal scoring.he might help market the team also.
by Imperator_Celtic on Feb 4, 2010 8:31 PM EST reply actions
Salmela
Salmela coming back
so says Kevin allen, who broke the whole story.
http://twitter.com/kausatoday
You mean the Devils got MORE than Kovalchuk back for this? WOW
Devils in my heart! Devils in my mind! Devils in my eyes! Devils until I die!
In Lou We Trust - The Devils SBN Blog
Tweet "waddell"
I enjoyed hearing what fans are tweeting about Waddell
I have respect for most sports fans with 2 exceptions: NY Ranger fans who grew up in New Jersey, and Dallas Cowboy fans who can't name the capital of Texas.
A million huzzahs for Lou!
I didn’t even think getting Kovalchuk would’ve happened period. Reason number 91332315476984 on why you should trust Lou.
The 2010 New York Mets: Maybe it's the Phillies' turn to have 95% of its roster on the DL
The 2009 New England Patriots: At least we got our division title back
2009-10 New Jersey Devils: It's Kovy Time!
This is interesting
If/when its confirmed, how long until he starts actually playing?
Never assume skill at bouncing a ball makes you smarter than the guy who built the court.
When there's a WILL there's a WAY
Tomorrow against Toronto?
Tell him to keep his head up….
"I know not with what weapons World War III will be fought, but World War IV will be fought with sticks and stones."
Albert Einstein
by Say *plan the parade one more time*... on Feb 4, 2010 8:33 PM EST up reply actions
I was against the signing, but I have to say, my heart is racing at the thought of his firepower and there’s a big old ear to ear grin on my face I can’t shake. I never expected this kind of deal.
i like to
echo the above post,that was just a great deal really no other way to look at it.i didnt want it at first but that was mostly because id think atlanta would want a whole lot more then they got.
by Imperator_Celtic on Feb 4, 2010 8:42 PM EST up reply actions
Haha
I thought the same thing, gotta update that roster!
by RicketyCricket on Feb 4, 2010 8:37 PM EST up reply actions
Interesting Fact
Kovalchuk will be the the 2nd First Overall Pick to play for the Devils, the first since Mel Bridgeman from 1983-87
Space Weed Says (Insert Generic quote about blog here)
"DO NOT get stuck behind Kyle Wellwood in the buffet line. This isn't really etiquette, but it will prevent you from starving to death"- Down Goes Brown on Etiquette for Jason Spezza's wedding
by Kevin Sellathamby on Feb 4, 2010 8:36 PM EST reply actions
Only this first overall pick wasn’t drafted by NJ.
Devils in my heart! Devils in my mind! Devils in my eyes! Devils until I die!
In Lou We Trust - The Devils SBN Blog
Neither was Bridgeman either
Space Weed Says (Insert Generic quote about blog here)
"DO NOT get stuck behind Kyle Wellwood in the buffet line. This isn't really etiquette, but it will prevent you from starving to death"- Down Goes Brown on Etiquette for Jason Spezza's wedding
by Kevin Sellathamby on Feb 4, 2010 8:40 PM EST up reply actions
Great stat
And how many 2nd picks did we have? I can think of Muller and Shanahan right off the bat.
I have respect for most sports fans with 2 exceptions: NY Ranger fans who grew up in New Jersey, and Dallas Cowboy fans who can't name the capital of Texas.
Question: Did you guys like Bergfors? Let’s say the deal never happened. Was he, in your mind, a nice part of the Devils future?
"Jaromir Jagr.... it's a POWER PLAY GOAL!"
- Sam Rosen
"Marian Gaborik.... it's a POWER PLAY GOAL!"
-Sam Rosen
he was a good player. Just needs to be playing with the top players to be productive imo
Space Weed Says (Insert Generic quote about blog here)
"DO NOT get stuck behind Kyle Wellwood in the buffet line. This isn't really etiquette, but it will prevent you from starving to death"- Down Goes Brown on Etiquette for Jason Spezza's wedding
by Kevin Sellathamby on Feb 4, 2010 8:37 PM EST up reply actions
He had upside, but he really hit the wall after an excellent December. Even next to Parise and/or Zajac, he had 0 points in the last few weeks. He is a rookie so it’s hard to say whether he’ll put out of it.
Devils in my heart! Devils in my mind! Devils in my eyes! Devils until I die!
In Lou We Trust - The Devils SBN Blog
hmm, I see the “rookie” side of the arguement. So upside, yet streaky. Maybe he’ll hit a stride in ATL, maybe he wont, but a nice part of the team none-the-less.
"Jaromir Jagr.... it's a POWER PLAY GOAL!"
- Sam Rosen
"Marian Gaborik.... it's a POWER PLAY GOAL!"
-Sam Rosen
Bergfors had upside
But truthfully I felt Halischuk, Zharkov & Vasuyonov had higher ceiling and were all 1 year away.
hes bad play mabey was comming from
the fact heknew the devils were trying to trade him id imagine that would be very distracting.mabey odyua also.
by Imperator_Celtic on Feb 4, 2010 8:57 PM EST up reply actions
He had grit
but could handle the puck well in my opinion
I have respect for most sports fans with 2 exceptions: NY Ranger fans who grew up in New Jersey, and Dallas Cowboy fans who can't name the capital of Texas.
We’re giving away a little of the future, I liked bergfors, despite the recent slump (he’s a rookie). But I still love the trade. Remember, Marties got around 3 years left, we’re in the Win Now mode
Friend of mine (Flyers fan btw) sent me this. Sooooo very true LMAO
http://img504.imageshack.us/i/page1tm.jpg
The 2010 New York Mets: Maybe it's the Phillies' turn to have 95% of its roster on the DL
The 2009 New England Patriots: At least we got our division title back
2009-10 New Jersey Devils: It's Kovy Time!
The link failed. I want to make a Flyers fan related joke here, but it’s best if I don’t
Space Weed Says (Insert Generic quote about blog here)
"DO NOT get stuck behind Kyle Wellwood in the buffet line. This isn't really etiquette, but it will prevent you from starving to death"- Down Goes Brown on Etiquette for Jason Spezza's wedding
by Kevin Sellathamby on Feb 4, 2010 8:43 PM EST up reply actions
I explained the pic, but I'll try again.
http://img504.imageshack.us/i/page1tm.jpg/
The 2010 New York Mets: Maybe it's the Phillies' turn to have 95% of its roster on the DL
The 2009 New England Patriots: At least we got our division title back
2009-10 New Jersey Devils: It's Kovy Time!
Awesome.
Space Weed Says (Insert Generic quote about blog here)
"DO NOT get stuck behind Kyle Wellwood in the buffet line. This isn't really etiquette, but it will prevent you from starving to death"- Down Goes Brown on Etiquette for Jason Spezza's wedding
by Kevin Sellathamby on Feb 4, 2010 9:00 PM EST up reply actions
Link's dead again...
Can’t you just post the pic in this thread?
Trying to watch Devs games at 4pm is a PitA.
The picture I tried to put up.
It’s a Photoshopped image of a “Godfather” picture where Lou is Don Corleone, Lemaire is in the background with a grin on his face, and Waddell is kissing Lou’s hand.
Hope this helps.
The 2010 New York Mets: Maybe it's the Phillies' turn to have 95% of its roster on the DL
The 2009 New England Patriots: At least we got our division title back
2009-10 New Jersey Devils: It's Kovy Time!
Those are the same people who said we wouldn’t make the playoffs this year.
by C.J.Richey121 on Feb 4, 2010 8:50 PM EST up reply actions
Hmmmm….I’d like the forwards as…
Parise-Zajac-Kovalchuk
Rolston-Zubrus-Zharkov
Pandolfo-Niedermayer-Davis
Pelley-McAmmond-Leblond
Eh? Eh?
Devils in my heart! Devils in my mind! Devils in my eyes! Devils until I die!
In Lou We Trust - The Devils SBN Blog
top line is obscene
On the Forecheck is SB Nation's blog covering the Nashville Predators.
Follow me on Twitter
wait, so where did Langenbrunner go? And where does Elias factor in?
Space Weed Says (Insert Generic quote about blog here)
"DO NOT get stuck behind Kyle Wellwood in the buffet line. This isn't really etiquette, but it will prevent you from starving to death"- Down Goes Brown on Etiquette for Jason Spezza's wedding
by Kevin Sellathamby on Feb 4, 2010 8:58 PM EST up reply actions
Oh, I forgot about him! Scratch Leblond, move Zharkov to fourth, play Langenbrunner on the second line.
So much is happening so fast.
Devils in my heart! Devils in my mind! Devils in my eyes! Devils until I die!
In Lou We Trust - The Devils SBN Blog
And where does Clarkson fit in this? Replace Davis with Clarkson. BAM.
Devils in my heart! Devils in my mind! Devils in my eyes! Devils until I die!
In Lou We Trust - The Devils SBN Blog
Everyone’s going nuts over Kovymania?
Space Weed Says (Insert Generic quote about blog here)
"DO NOT get stuck behind Kyle Wellwood in the buffet line. This isn't really etiquette, but it will prevent you from starving to death"- Down Goes Brown on Etiquette for Jason Spezza's wedding
by Kevin Sellathamby on Feb 4, 2010 9:09 PM EST up reply actions
"Whatcha gonna do?"
“When Ilya runs wild on you?”
by Death_By_Leafs on Feb 4, 2010 9:51 PM EST up reply actions
When all are healthy then..
Sub Elias for Sharky
Sub Langs for Davis
Sub Clarkson for PLLL
by Matthew Ventolo on Feb 4, 2010 8:59 PM EST up reply actions
Can we just get rid of Peters as well?
The 2010 New York Mets: Maybe it's the Phillies' turn to have 95% of its roster on the DL
The 2009 New England Patriots: At least we got our division title back
2009-10 New Jersey Devils: It's Kovy Time!
Robbery
Think Marty’s excited about a real chance at another cup? Best chance we’ve had in years. When Elias is back we have primary, secondary and tertiary scoring. A team to feared.
but
will Lemaire release them to free flowing hockey? Parise and Kovy flying up and down the wings…
Admittedly, I haven’t watched but a period of Devils hockey this year, but if Lemaire is Minnesota Lemaire then I’m not sure how this’ll work.
On the Forecheck is SB Nation's blog covering the Nashville Predators.
Follow me on Twitter
This. This is the best response.
Devils in my heart! Devils in my mind! Devils in my eyes! Devils until I die!
In Lou We Trust - The Devils SBN Blog
What about the lines When everyones healthy?
My thoughts
Parise/Zajac/Kovalchuk
Elias/Zubrus/Rolston
Clarkson/Niedermier/Langs
Pando/McHammond/ Pelley
Maybe switch Langenbrunner and Rolston, Langenbrunner has done much more to deserve being in the top 6.
No way you stack Parise and Kovalchuk together, unless it is the final minute and you must have a goal. When the team is entirely healthy, I’d go with:
Parise/Zajac/Langenbrunner
Kovalchuk/Elias/Clarkson
Rolston/Zubrus/Zharkov
Pelley/McAmmond/Pandolfo
ZZ Pops as your #1 line: they’re a proven commodity, and they know one another and have chemistry. Elias to be Kovy’s playmaker and backchecker, with Clarkson to crash the net and do the dirty work — I know Elias isn’t a natural center, but he’s the top set-up man among the forwards, and Rolston does much of what Kovalchuk does (plus defensive play) and I don’t see a good reason to have two such similar players on that line. The third line would be as good a third line as exists anywhere in the league, and the 4th line makes for nice checkers. As for Rob Niedermeyer, as soon as everyone returns he can be banished to Manitoba, because he isn’t doing much of anything to help the team at this point.
100% agree
With him you keep the big 2 on different lines.
Just think now another team’s top 2 D are not facing Parise — his goals go up
then you put them against ZZ Pops - Elias Kovy and who cares who are freed up.
Alot of red lights I see behind the other teams goal
by Team First Devils on Feb 4, 2010 9:56 PM EST up reply actions
Oh, and free up space for 2011 (aka Zach Parise’s Payday)
Space Weed Says (Insert Generic quote about blog here)
"DO NOT get stuck behind Kyle Wellwood in the buffet line. This isn't really etiquette, but it will prevent you from starving to death"- Down Goes Brown on Etiquette for Jason Spezza's wedding
by Kevin Sellathamby on Feb 4, 2010 9:09 PM EST up reply actions
No way we’re signing him!
His asking price is the maximum, or 11.3 mil a year. We’re not paying that. I think he’s off the Russia after this year, where he can make the most money.
But consider this
I’ve seen comments that say he didn’t want the money from Atlanta because he’s not going to win there. With a perennial winner like the Devils, he may be willing to take less.
Go Jets
Go Devils
Hmmm...
Well, if Marty says he’ll tough it out for 3-5 more years, I’d stay for less if I were Kovy.
Then again, maybe he’s more interested in making 335 million rubles a year. Within three years he’ll be a Russian Billionaire!
Trying to watch Devs games at 4pm is a PitA.
Wow. Wow Wow
I have to say my impression is this is a solid deal. Liked Oduya, but he has not played great this year and with some of the up and comers like Fraser I think he became expendable.
Bergfors also showed flashed but you have to give up something to get something.
We are making our run at this thing.
Wow
by Devilssection21fan on Feb 4, 2010 9:01 PM EST reply actions
So excited!
This was a GREAT deal by lou wow Kovalchuk and Elias together will be amazing. Also good for Bergfors and Oduya more for Bergfors as he’ll most likely be in the first or second line for Atlanta where he should be. Oduya will be one of the top defensmen there too
First things first
I officially get off of Lou for signing Pikkarainin and will never bring it up again.
That being said, I dont think lou makes this deal if he didnt intend on signing him. If Kovy becomes unrestricted we all know there is a big chance he will end up wearing a red white and blue jersey, and that cant happen.
A player of this quality puts people in the stands and sells season tickets. Short of getting Ovechkin we couldnt do any better, and I will be major diappointed if this was just a rental.
I was a big Salmela fan and didnt like losing him, so it will be interesting to see how that goes. Its also a pretty big sign that lou plans on signing Martin, and i would not be surprised if that happens in the next 2 months.
I agree, I sorely hope Lou intends to sign him. Otherwise a big waste. This guy can fill seats. He is an elite player in his own category. I can’t remember a player like him on the Devils roster since Mogilny?
by thatguy011071 on Feb 4, 2010 9:11 PM EST up reply actions
Mogilny was still dang good when he was here in late 2000, 2001.
Devils in my heart! Devils in my mind! Devils in my eyes! Devils until I die!
In Lou We Trust - The Devils SBN Blog
The Devils have never had a 50 goal scorer. This is why I hope Lou signs him. I liked Mogilny, really hated to see him go.
by thatguy011071 on Feb 4, 2010 9:33 PM EST up reply actions
Claude was awesome. I saw him in the playoffs in 95 in Philly he scored that really nice goal. The Devils won and the flyers fans nearly killed me and my buddy. Last time I ever go down there for a game.
by thatguy011071 on Feb 4, 2010 9:40 PM EST up reply actions
Rental or not, this should be very interesting how Kovy as a Devil pans out.
The 2010 New York Mets: Maybe it's the Phillies' turn to have 95% of its roster on the DL
The 2009 New England Patriots: At least we got our division title back
The 2009-10 New Jersey Devils: It's Kovy Time!
prediction: things turn out well.
damn. enjoy your rings
(grumble grumble)
by Death_By_Leafs on Feb 4, 2010 9:53 PM EST up reply actions
I would if my optimism weren't so seriously cautious.
But thanks for your prediction (and your grumblings lol).
The 2010 New York Mets: Maybe it's the Phillies' turn to have 95% of its roster on the DL
The 2009 New England Patriots: At least we got our division title back
The 2009-10 New Jersey Devils: It's Kovy Time!
Devils had a conference call, Gulitti’s got the details, Kovalchuk plays tomorrow.
I put up my last thoughts of the day on this deal. THANK YOU ALL for your comments and such.
Preview will be a bit brief, but you’ll understand, right?
Devils in my heart! Devils in my mind! Devils in my eyes! Devils until I die!
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If Lou can sign this guy long term it would be super awesome. I seriously hope they can do that. Honestly, they didn’t give up much besides the 1st rounder.
by thatguy011071 on Feb 4, 2010 9:23 PM EST up reply actions
PP
Kovy is going to pick up our anemic power play. Now it won’t be just Rolston shooting from the point
I can’t help but have some reserve still about all this but I nevertheless can’t wait to see how Kovalchuk clicks with the rest of the team.
My only reservation is if Lou can’t sign him. What we gave up isn’t much for a player of this caliber.
by thatguy011071 on Feb 4, 2010 9:41 PM EST up reply actions
I doubt we can re-sign him. Too many teams will be throwing way too much cash his way this off-season, and that’s before the KHL enters the picture. He’s an expensive rental, but one heck of an expensive rental at that.
Besides, we got him on the cheap, and letting Oduya go frees up cap space for Martin and for the summer of “Zach Gets Paid”
Do you guys think he’ll be playing tomorrow?
"We aim above the mark to hit the mark." -- Ralph Waldo Emerson
John said he would
from a link somewhere up there.
Never assume skill at bouncing a ball makes you smarter than the guy who built the court.
When there's a WILL there's a WAY
Great Job Lou
I read posts on another site saying this is a bad trade for Devils -- they have to be crazy ranger fans. We gave up nothing for the 3rd best hockey player in the NHL. What did we really give up? Bergfors OK fine but to tell the truth Zharkov could step in and play just as well. Devs have Vasyunov who I really like (I thought he had to go to Atl with Eckford when both did not play last night for Lowell) That brings to Johnny O – to tell the truth I liked Salmela more then Johnny when I saw him play in a pre season game — very good puck mover needs more work on the D side (but with Robinson Stevens and Albelin he will be fine) we also keep Eckford and Corrente. We gave up Patrice is anyone crying over this GET REAL – Halischuk Palmieri are better players. SO we gave up a 1st round pick for 1/2 season for a STAR. YOU MAKE THIS TRADE
by Team First Devils on Feb 4, 2010 9:52 PM EST reply actions
Lines...
If Jacques puts Kovalchuk with Parise and Zajac he should be fired.
He belongs on the line with Rolston and Elias.. If that doesn’t get some goals out of the second line, I don’t know what to say.
With Elias and Kovy – I could care less who plays with them.
Dean McAmmond as the center maybe. They will need a better Defensive man on the line. Kovy is not known for his great Defensive skills.
by Team First Devils on Feb 4, 2010 10:00 PM EST up reply actions
also
Chere has his thoughts on the big trade
Space Weed Says (Insert Generic quote about blog here)
"DO NOT get stuck behind Kyle Wellwood in the buffet line. This isn't really etiquette, but it will prevent you from starving to death"- Down Goes Brown on Etiquette for Jason Spezza's wedding
by Kevin Sellathamby on Feb 4, 2010 9:57 PM EST reply actions
this should lift the offense.
We picked up a great offensive player. Gave up some young players who may turn out very good in the future. HOPEFULLY if he really contributes and brings us Lord Stanley we will be able to resign him. It will be interesting to see if he jells in the Devil style of play.. I am excited by this for now..
Donald Vasquez
Something to look forward to
http://video.nhl.com/videocenter/console?catid=35&id=59249
Kovalchuk Highlights
He's got some quick hands
Nice puck movement and a shot-release so quick it’s blurry on the slo-mo replay.
Trying to watch Devs games at 4pm is a PitA.
Could there be more to come
Really think about it. The Devils did not trade Eckford Corrente Halischuk Vasyunov and the last 2 1st round draft picks.
NOT SAYING all have to go – but we still have something to trade
And after the Games -- Martin will be back and Clarkson
As for re-signing Kovy – it is really not out of the question - Johnny O’s contract is gone Martin COULD be replaced by Eckford or Corrente Niedermayer will be gone (that is 1 MIL) Big question is signing Parise that is where it gets you thinking BUT is that when White and Pando are gone – or we can trade to Pando to Boston (go home PANDO)
Lou will think outside the box
by Team First Devils on Feb 4, 2010 10:09 PM EST reply actions
Yet again, I remind a Devils fan that Pandolfo has a NTC.
Devils in my heart! Devils in my mind! Devils in my eyes! Devils until I die!
In Lou We Trust - The Devils SBN Blog
by John Fischer on Feb 4, 2010 10:30 PM EST up reply actions
You do not think Pando would NOT waive his NTC
Remember he was not happy to sit for many games last year. You tell him he can either waive his NTC or be the 10th player on offense
You do not think he would want to play - bye bye Pando and he heads back home to MASS.
There is all ways a way to get rid of players -—the NTC makes it harder but not 0%
by Team First Devils on Feb 4, 2010 10:39 PM EST up reply actions
Lou is a golden god.
AHHHH this is awesome. Lou never makes a deal like this! I can’t wait to see the line combinations!! And the power play! Come on! I’m so pumped! Let’s not worry about next year with the rest of this year looking soooo promising
I’ve been sort of whatever and skeptical of the whole Kovy coming to NJ thing the last few weeks, but now that he’s here, and for what we gave up…. yeeeeeaaaah!!
by Devil_Hard_Core on Feb 4, 2010 10:30 PM EST reply actions
That’s the big thing. I thought it would have taken MUCH more for Kovalchuk to come to NJ and therefore immediately felt it wouldn’t happen.
But this? Gotta pull the trigger on that one.
Devils in my heart! Devils in my mind! Devils in my eyes! Devils until I die!
In Lou We Trust - The Devils SBN Blog
by John Fischer on Feb 4, 2010 10:31 PM EST up reply actions
Agree here
I thought 1 of the 2 1st round picks (Sweds) Corrente or Eckford and then maybe a Bergfors or Zharkov and picks.
We gave up nothing to tell the truth -- all of these guys can be replaced from within the organization.
by Team First Devils on Feb 4, 2010 10:43 PM EST up reply actions
This puts undeniably among the elite.
I feel like its gonna be the Hawks and Sharks in the West and us and the Caps in the East!
Don't count out the Pens and Buffalo
I think they’ve got the right tools for the job.
Also, let’s all pray the Canes don’t sneak in somehow…
Trying to watch Devs games at 4pm is a PitA.
2010 draft class
Word on the street is that it’s a better than average draft class. But the Devils swapped their 2nd round draft pick with Atlanta’s right? So let’s say Atlanta finishes near the bottom (likely 25th or so) and the Devils are in the top 5 or if they win the Cup) . . . then that swap in the 2nd round seems critical. If the Devils won the Cup, it could be a marginal difference, because Atlanta’s likely fried without Kovy and they’ll end up picking 33rd or 35th overall anyway.
So adding the 2nd round picks without conditions seems a doosey.
I have respect for most sports fans with 2 exceptions: NY Ranger fans who grew up in New Jersey, and Dallas Cowboy fans who can't name the capital of Texas.
Yes I hear the same thing about the up coming draft – very deep
Devs will be in the 20s again and getting Atlanta’s 2nd will be in the low 30s
maybe a 10 pick drop -- plus you have to remember we still have many young players in the system --
Possible trade of Martin’s rights for picks -— possible young players traded to get back into the 1st -—- you deal with that at draft time -- right now this makes up for all the stupid dealings with the Mets organization
by Team First Devils on Feb 4, 2010 10:51 PM EST reply actions
Trade analysis
First let’s talk about the players invovled. I don’t think anyone could argue that picking up Ilya Kovalchuk is not going to help the Devils struggling offense.In essence, the Devils have been putting a lot of pressure on Parise and Elias to score goals on their respective lines, and when a team expects a single player on a line to produce, it becomes easier for a defense to handle the offense, and without Elias in the lineup, almost all the scoring has been put on the shoulders on Parise’s line, and the Devils offense has become stagnant.
Not anymore.
When Elias returns, the Devils will have 3 superstar players that can put the puck in the net. Imagine having Elias and Kovy on the same line. All of the sudden, an opponent’s top defensive unit might have to play against that line, which should give the Parise line a lot more of an offensive punch. Lastly, when the injured Devils return, the offense will be pretty deep, with a good amount of grit and experience mixed in on the 3rd and 4th lines. In terms of Salmela, he knows the Devils system and could be a good depth defenseman in the playoffs. However, it seems that the Devils have plenty of good depth defenseman and could use another top 4 player, perhaps foreshadowing another trade in the future.
Now let’s talk about who the Devils lost. First and foremost, Johnny Oduya was great for the Devils. A great find for the Devils when he was signed, he originally showed that he could fit very well in the Devils system while adding a bit of offense to the team. Most importantly this year, he has stepped up like the rest of the defense in Paul Martin’s absence. However, the stats don’t lie. Last year’s 7 goals and 22 assists have been all but disappeared this year (4 points in 40 games). In other words, a solid defenseman for sure, but certainly not that impressive. Niclas Bergfors is another loss for the Devils. His 27 points this season put him towards the top of all rookies in the league. However, TSN puts it best when they say :BERGFORS IS COLD. He has not registered a point since January 5th (13 games total) and has not scored since the end of 2009 (Dec. 30 against Pittsburgh, 16 games played since). One could argue that he is not playing with guys that can set him up, but I think he, like anyone else, just looks and performs better when playing with better linemates. In short, lots of potential in the future but expendable for this year. Lastly, Patrice Cormier, as good as he is, probably had one foot out the door as soon as he delivered that cheap shot. He may be talented, but Lou doesn’t accept that type of hockey.
Finally, consider the picks. Getting Atlanta’s 2nd round pick, as mentioned by many above me, is really not that big of a drop from the Devils 1st round pick. If the Devils start to play better and Atlanta throws in the towel, the difference could become even more marginal, as a result, I believe the Devils really only gave up a 2nd rounder and a slight drop from their 1st.
Great trade for Lou.
Another reason to thank you all
I don’t get too excited over traffic counts but..uh…this has been the best day in the entire history of In Lou We Trust in terms of traffic. The day’s not even over and there’s been 4,702 visitors and 8,253 page views.
Thank you all!
Devils in my heart! Devils in my mind! Devils in my eyes! Devils until I die!
In Lou We Trust - The Devils SBN Blog
thank you for a great blog.
this is the best place for devils news
What you fail to understand in your joyless myopia is that baseball is the key to life-- the Rosetta Stone, if you will. If you just understood baseball better all your other questions your, your... the, uh... the aliens, the conspiracies they would all, in their way be answered by the baseball gods.
I also wanted to point out...
That you deserve every bit of that record traffic. This has been a great day for us all.
great day to be a devils fan
i’m still smiling. i can’t believe how much i’m looking forward to the leafs game tomorrow. i’m cautious too though here. kovalchuk is a better sniper than hossa, but we know how that rental turned out last year. it’s hard to picture a pure sniper like kovy in the line-up – i can’t wait to see how jacque experiments with him. it’s great that he’s a right-handed shot coming in off the left wing, so he’s equally comfortable on both sides. yeah, i know mog is the closest thing we had to a true sniper, but he was already in his 30s when he came to nj. this is going to be good.
it would just be so great if we could sign him long term. what do you guys think about him signing with the devils? Does he sign for the same contract ATL offered him or more money?
If the Devils do sign him
it will be for less. The Devils can offer one thing the Thrashers couldn’t possibly that many players would trade for at least a little cash. A chance at a Cup.
Go Jets
Go Devils
SlimJims says "We're Not Signing Him"
Sorry FrankG929 but because SlimJims is really Lou Lamoriello HIMSELF on these blogs, it’s official.
(in case you haven’t noticed, I was being sarcastic)
Lou would NEVER go for a deal like this if he did not plan on AT LEAST making a GOOD REASONABLE OFFER to Kovy. And the idea of playing in the Playoffs year after year after year will also be a MAJOR Sticking point for Kovy to decide to take less money to stay long-term.
Congratulations from a Thrashers' fan
Gotta hand it to your organization. We were robbed. Keep in mind one thing. Kovy’s price was to STAY IN ATLANTA. That is far far different from what it may take to get him to stay in the NHL. He may be planning to go to the KHL so don’t count that out, but you guys have a real true chance to sign him long term if he hasn’t already made up his mind to go to the KHL. There are also some things in your favor that would be pure speculation on my part, but let me just say that I strongly feel that Mrs. Kovy is a lot more excited about being close to New York again (she lived there prior to their marriage) than she ever was about living in Atlanta and that may enable you to re-sign him – IF he hasn’t already decided he’s going to the KHL.
I agree with you 100%
Being near NYC is a plus — But even if Kovy does leave to another team (like the Rangers) - we have players to replace every player we gave Atlanta. Plus that team that does signs Kovy to the max will have to move other players to fit Kovy in the cap -- or if he goes to KHL again we can replace all those we lost.
Devs could be moving older players (even ones with NTCs) if they feel they playing time will drop which I feel it will.
I have said those players names a few times here -- Devs could have young players making league low and be able to keep are talented players under the cap.
by Team First Devils on Feb 5, 2010 9:48 AM EST up reply actions
Well Kovy said he would love to stay in Atlanta but he was worried about the team staying there and being a winning organization - Devs should remain in NJ as the fan base is growing and we win alot (well as long as Marty is still here)
Here is the thing Devs will be in good shape with the CAP – we lost 3.5 MIL for the next 2 years with Johnny gone - Niedermayer (who I wanted to return has not play well lately) will not be back that is another MIL - Could bring McAmmond back for league MIN as 4th center -— Devils could trade (even guys with NTC) in the off season
Devs have a ton of young players ready who will make league lows – Eckford Corrente Fraser all could stick with the Devs next year -—- Vasyunov Tedenby Josefson Palmieri Zharkov (who could replace Pandolfo) due to the fact he skates well and checks just as well as Pando
You sit Pando as the 13 th forward – he will ask fro a trade like Giggy did in Ana - that is the play -— you reduce White’s games he may ask out as well THERE ARE WAYS TO TRADE GUYS WITH NTCs
by Team First Devils on Feb 5, 2010 9:34 AM EST reply actions
Let's use capitalization for this response.
The only way a guy with a NTC can be traded is if the PLAYER wants to LEAVE NEW JERSEY. Given where the Devils currently are, I highly DOUBT that they’ll want to WAIVE THEIR CLAUSE to go SOMEWHERE ELSE.
Also, no way can Zharkov/Halischuk/etc. can replace Pandolfo. It’s not all about scoring.
Devils in my heart! Devils in my mind! Devils in my eyes! Devils until I die!
In Lou We Trust - The Devils SBN Blog
Steal of the Year
With the addition of Kovy the Devils are the team to beat, As a Rangers fan I hate to admit it but the Devils now have the best goaltender ever in Marty, one of if not the best American player in Parise and now one of the best players in league in Kovy. None of us have an idea if the Devils are going to make him the highest paid player in the league (like he wants) or if he is only a rental, but in the short term, it sure looks like a Stanley Cup could be coming
by The Last Shall Become First on Feb 5, 2010 9:42 AM EST reply actions
Great Move
Lou did it again. I still believe that he still has one more move in his sleeve before the trade deadline .
I agree
We gave up nothing
Vasyunov Palmieri Tedenby Josefson Corrente Ecfkord and others are still in the organization
you can put 2 in a package and get a nice player back -—
and Devs got out of the 3.5 MIL for next two years to Oduya whp has been surpassed by Greene
by Team First Devils on Feb 5, 2010 10:11 AM EST reply actions
We Robbed Atlanta at gun point!
WOW That made my night! We are now looking very Nice! All we need now is another Dman. I really hope we can get somone really good. That would cause every NYR fan to drop dead. Penguin fans are already starting to feel a chill go down there spines. Lets Give them Hockey Hell!!
DEVILS BABY YES!!!
Great move. How the hell did that go down? Kovy n Samella(who was one of our prospects at one point i think) for Bergs(who showed life but isnt quite ready)Oduya, n late draft picks. Awesome.
Another trade?
Do you think that now because of this Lou wont go after some one like Nidermayer to bulk up the blue line?
to the Pandolfo haters...
Lets not forget what Pandy has done for this team as far as killing penalties and covering the best scorers on the other teams. He has never been a great offensive player. Players like Pandy are valuable to a team in their own way. I hope he finishes his career as a Devil.
Donald Vasquez
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