Ilya Kovalchuk, Chicago Blackhawks, and More NHL Rumours: August Ninth

Remember, these rumours may not be from great sources. They are simply all I can find from reasonable sources.

Ilya Kovalchuk apparently had his contract with the Devils reinstated. This is terrible news in my opinion, as Bettman has plenty of evidence to show a clear violation because Kovy will retire long before the contract expires.

Apparently the source was wrong about Ilya Kovalchuk. Apparently the arbitrator ruled in favour of the NHL. The article is from the Toronto Sun: http://www.torontosun.com/sports/hockey/2010/08/09/14970501.html.

Do not cite other cases to show this is fair. This time there is enough proof because Kovalchuk will definitely retire before the contract expires.

If nothing else, it is common sense proof, which Bettman should have looked at when the Marian Hossa contract leaked. The Pronger contract is fine, because his cap hit stays whether or not he retires.

Willie Mitchell is nearing his decision. He is trying to choose between the Sharks and the Capitals. This player is good for both teams, because both need a tough shut down defenseman, as most of their defenseman are too soft.

The Chicago Blackhawks are talking to Swiss teams and the KHL about Cristobal Huet. They obviously want to get rid of him. Why not check with the Swedish Elite League?

Paul Kariya's contract with the Anaheim Ducks is going to be similar to Mike Modano's contract with the Detroit Red Wings—lots of bonuses. I find this odd because bonuses will count towards the cap, as there is no CBA in place for next year.

As for Tomas Kaberle, a lot of teams are interested. With only six days until decision time, expect the offers to get really good, especially now that Kovalchuk is expected to be off the market.

Besides, people always make a better deal once they get a deadline. This is why so many crazy deals occur on trade deadline day.

The feeling I get is that Tomas Kaberle is gone, and we will probably not be able to guess who we get. Expect it to be unexpected. There are rumours that the Kings would give up Dustin Brown, but we'll see.