NHL Playoffs 2012: Ilya Kovalchuk of New Jersey Devils Is Silencing His Critics

May 22nd, 2012 by Aaron Timoshyk Leave a reply »
Ilya Kovalchuk would cap his first Gordie Howe hat trick (and only the second in New Jersey Devils history) with a goal and two assists during February 4's 6-4 victory over the Flyers. 

It was a performance that caught many off guard, not the least of whom was the battered Brayden Schenn.  As he shook loose the cobwebs and picked himself up off the ice, Schenn could be forgiven for not knowing what hit him.

During his ten-year NHL career, Ilya Kovalchuk has been characterized in many ways, and they have not all been flattering—defensive liability, soft, floater, selfish.  But gritty?  Hard-nosed?  Conn Smythe candidate? 

Easily the most accomplished offensive player still in these 2012 NHL playoffs, one thing that has never been questioned is Kovalchuk’s skill, but there have seemingly always been lingering questions about his desire, focus and ability to elevate his game when it matters most. 

This year’s run with the Devils is definitely helping to answer those questions.

At the time of his trade from Atlanta, there were some who questioned whether or not Kovalchu ...

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