Kovalchuk You Devil

****BREAKING NEWS****

Well, color me and most others surprised, the Ilya Kovalchuk sweepstakes is over. The story just crossed that Kovalchuk was traded to New Jersey for Defenseman John Oduya, Forwards Niclas Bergfors and Patrice Cormier and a first round draft pick.

The Story from TSN Canada RIGHT HERE

((Ilya Kovalchuk is moving to the swamps of New Jersey//Courtesy: Scott Audette/Getty Images/NHL Images))

Kovalchuk, who had reportedly turned down a 7 year, $70 million deal and a 12 year $101 million dollar deal, will probably be just a rental for New Jersey, currently second in the Eastern Conference with 72 points.

By contrast, the Thrashers have some 'splainin to do to the fans back in Atlanta. They now, no longer have a "Franchise" level player to sell to the fanbase. The team, who has only made the playoffs once in its 11 year history has been flirting with the 8th position in the East all season. Making the playoffs might ease some of the concern, but right now, it looks like it will be the same old story for a team that may or may not have a long term future in a city which is not really interested in its product.

Here's coverage of the Kovalchuk trade, thanks to our friends at TSN...
Rod Smith tosses to Darren Dreger...