Ilya Kovalchuk Stuns New Jersey Devils by Retiring from NHL

July 11th, 2013 by Carl Stoffers Leave a reply »
The New Jersey Devils have had a tumultuous off season.

There was bad news, as they lost David Clarkson to free agency almost a year to the day after Zach Parise bolted for Minnesota.

There was also plenty to be excited about, as President/General Manager Lou Lamoriello acquired Canucks goaltender Cory Schneider on draft day, perhaps providing the long-term solution to the fast-approaching "after Marty" era. Lamoriello stayed active on the trade and free agent markets, re-signing veterans Patrik Elias, Dainius Zubrus and Marek Zidlicky, while bringing aboard Ryan Clowe, Michael Ryder and Rostislav Olesz.

Oft-injured defenseman Henrik Tallinder was unloaded to the Buffalo Sabres, as the crafty general manager attempted to make room for one of several young defensemen in New Jersey's system.

Despite the loss of Clarkson, one of the most popular Devils in recent history, the future looked good in New Jersey. The multiple moves showed that Lamoriello wasn't about to stand pat and was remaining true to his word that the Devils are always looking to improve.

Then, the bottom fell out.

Today, forward Ilya Kovalchuk an ...

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