Atlanta Thrashers GM Wadell to Ilya Kovalchuk: Pack Your Bags

Ding ding ding! And the fight is on for what may be the most intriguing deal in a long time in the NHL.

Atlanta Thrashers GM Don Wadell is reported to have informed superstar foward Ilya Kovalchuk today, that his days are numbered.

In several reports from The Fan 590, TSN.ca, and Sportsnet.ca it was divulged that in fact today, Wadell not only informed Kovalchuk but also Kovalchuks agent Jay Grossman that not only was he officially "on the block," but it would appear, according to TSN's Bob McKenzie that Wadell would like to have the situation resolved before the Thrashers next game on Friday.

What does all of this mean to the rest of the NHL, unless you're ready to deal, don't even pick up the phone.

Reports also indicate that Wadell is asking a steep price for his star winger, and has also indicated that he would not make this a ' future consideration ' trade.

Says Bob Mckenzie of TSN:

"Waddell has been telling teams he can't make this a future considerations' trade, that with the Thrashers in the hunt for a playoff spot, he doesn't need to peddle hope to his fans with draft picks and kids, he needs to put bona fide NHL bodies in the lineup to make up for Kovalchuk's absence and keep the playoff dream alive.

Teams have been told Waddell wants one top six forward, one top four defenceman and a prospect or high end draft pick."

Wadell is also refusing to allow teams to speak to Kovalckuk or his agent to try to determine if they can negotiate a long term contract. Which effectively makes Ilya Kovalchuk a rental player for the rest of the season.

While signing Kovalckuk would be a huge coup for almost any team, and there are no shortage of teams interested, Wadells refusal to allow talks between potential suitors and Kovalchuk may mean that he will in fact finish out the year in Atlanta.

Teams are well aware of Kovalchuks salary demands, as they are also aware that he turned down a 10-12 year offer that totals more than $100 million from the Thrashers.

His agent is reportedly asking for the league maximum of $11.2 million per year or a long term commitment of around $120 million.

While there are many teams, including the Kings, Ducks, Bruins, Blackhawks, Devils, Rangers, and yes, it has even been rumored that the Toronto Maple Leafs may try to put together a package to land one of the best players of the last decade.

Given the fact the the Leafs have no future considerations to trade, it may actually fit, and nothing would surprise out of the Burke camp any more.