NHL Buzz: Kovalchuk Decision Day

Today is the final day for the NHL to review Ilya Kovalchuk's new contract. The NHL has until 5 PM ET to make its decision on Kovalchuk. All signs seem to be toward the NHL approving the contract; then again, we all thought Kovalchuk and the Devils would win the arbitration hearing.

My take: I personally think this contract will be approved. The main reason is that in the last two years of Ilya Kovalchuk's contract he earns $3 million and $4 million respectively. That is a significant upgrade from the $500,000 to $600,000 he would have earned in his last contract.

Joel Quenneville stated yesterday that he expects Marty Turco to start between 55-60 games this season. For all you fantasy owners out there who are desperate for a good backup goalie, Corey Crawford is your guy.

My take: That is exactly how many starts I expected from Marty Turco; though he can handle the puck much better than Crawford, I wouldn't be surprised if Crawford took over.

Talks between Niclas Bergfors and the Atlanta Thrashers have completely stalled. Though an offer sheet is unlikely, I wouldn't be shocked if a team jumped in and signed him to one.

My take: I think the Thrashers and Bergfors will eventually reach an agreement, but like I said above I wouldn't be shocked if a team jumped in with an offer sheet.

The Boston Bruins want to bring back Steve Begin; however, they don't have any cap space to bring him back so they would have to clear some cap.

My take: He would be a good piece to bring back, but it's not worth losing one of their better players to do so.

Antti Niemi is in talks with several teams; some reports suggest he could make his decision as early as today.

My take: Niemi would prefer to sign with a contender short-term than an average team long-term. Personally, I don't blame him because if he plays well this year he could land a contract extension or a nice contract from another team in free agency.

Bill Guerin wants to return to the NHL but only to a contender.

My take: I think he will be in the NHL this season as several contenders could use him and he still wants to play.

This concludes today's edition of NHL Buzz, enjoy.

If you have any questions or comments about anything (news, rumors, etc...), feel free to email me at [e-mail] anytime, thanks.

This article can also be found at MTRMedia.com and Sportshaze.com

Follow me on twitter for the latest news and rumors @ToddNHL