RED ALERT: No Kovalchuk in DC please

The Atlanta Thrashers are apparently realizing that they may not be able to resign Russian superstar Ilya Kovalchuk to a long term deal.  They have apparently begun several conversations regarding trade opportunities.  It has been rumored the Washington Capitals may be involved, according to the Ottawa Sun.

It is interesting to see Kovalchuk and the Capitals mentioned together.  However, I just can't see this happening.  First, what would it take to make the deal go?  How many prized prospects would the Caps have to deal to Atlanta to close the deal?  Second, what would be the salary cap implications, both short term in fitting the Caps under the cap, with some flexibility, and long term, given the lengthy long term deal with Alexander Ovechkin?

The other problem would be, what will the Caps give up?  Semin?  Backstrom?  For me, choice between Kovalchuk and Backstrom, not a choice at all, give me Nick any day.  Second, Kovalchuk is asking for $10 per season from Atlanta?  Would he take $9 million for the Caps?  Possibilty.  That's $9 million set aside for Ovie and $9 million for Kovy.  $18 million committed to two players?  That would most certainly cause a shortfall of investment elsewhere, both short and long term. In fact, it goes completely against the grain and philosophy on what the latest rebuild was all about.

Finally, how does this help the Capitals?  Answer, it doesn't.  You want the Capitals to improve, especially for the post-season, how does Kovy do that?  The Caps already lead in scoring.  They already lead in power play.  Doesn't this team already flounder at times when Ovechkin plays, because of trying to create opportunities for Ovechkin instead of just taking shots and opportunities given?  Won't having two superstars change the aggressive nature of the offense that currently exists, because of trying to feed two superstars?

Read it all at

http://www.dcprosportsreport.com/articles/washington-capitals/red-alert-no-kovalchuk-in-dc-please.html