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Kovalchuk Open to Anything … What Will the Devils Do? Jagr Re-signs with Omsk? Doan a Game Time Decision
Mark Easson
Tom Gulitti of The Record: Ilya Kovalchuk said he is “open to anything”, and enjoyed his time with the Devils (not including the 1st round loss). “I love everything here,” Kovalchuk said. “I think it’s a great organization. I appreciate (general manager Lou Lamoriello) giving me a chance to play here. It was a great experience. I played with some great players. I loved it. So, we all know it’s a business. I’m open to anything.”
Lyle Richardson of Fox Sports: The New Jersey Devils will have to do some re-tinkering if they hope to return to their glory years. One area they’ll need to start considering is finding a replacement for Martin Brodeur when he retires (2 years left on his contract). Richardson suggests Carey Price could be a good fit, and would benefit from learning from Brodeur for a couple seasons. The Devils also need to improve along the blueline, especially if Paul Martin leaves via free agency. Richardson also doesn’t think that Kovalchuk will be re-signed, especially if he’s looking for a contract north of $8 million. Captain Jamie Langenbrunner has had some issues with coach Lemaire, and might be willing to waive his no-trade clause, though I don’t think he’d bring back a big return.
BeyondtheBlueshirts.com: They are reporting, via sport-planet.ru, that Jaromir Jagr has signed a 2-year contract with Avangard Omsk of the KHL.
The Globe and Mail: Minnesota Wild center Mikko Koivu probably won’t have much of a fun this off-season. Over the next couple days, he’ll have surgery on his knee that will require 3-4 weeks of recovery. He’ll also have surgery to repair a torn labrum on his right shoulder that will require 3-4 months of rehab.