On the New York Rangers and Ilya Kovalchuk …
Larry Brooks: Ilya Kovalchuk doesn’t become a free agent until August 15th.
Igor Eronko: Source saying that Ilya Kovalchuk will be signing a two to three year deal with the New York Rangers.
Aivis Kalnins: “In no way I’m doubting Igor but – This makes no sense? What Kovalchuk had said and his actions are going in two different directions.”
Aivis Kalnins: “I’m thinking Ilya is using these rumors as leverage in negotiations with a contender.”
Aivis Kalnins: Rangers GM Jeff Gorton said he can’t comment on a player – Ilya Kovalchuk – as he is another teams property still.
David Pagnotta: Kovalchuk to en.KHL.ru after SKA loss to CSKA: “I don’t know what fate has in store, but for the next two or three years I’d like to test myself in North America.”
On Jaromir Jagr …
NHL.com: The 46-year old Jaromir Jagr may not be done with the NHL.
“I would be more happy if I was in the NHL now, but as a second option, this is the place I want to be,” Jagr told the newspaper. “I got an opportunity and for whatever reason I didn’t play my best and I got injured.”
Jagr has been dealing with a knee injury and is practicing on his own.
“I’m kind of practicing on my own slowly,” Jagr said. “I want to get completely healthy and then see what happens. I don’t want to retire yet. I can always play here. My plan is just to get healthy first and then see how far I can go.”