Key Takeaways
- Ilya Kovalchuk says Connor McDavid’s contract decision could shake the NHL like Gretzky’s 1988 trade.
- Kovalchuk praised Ivan Demidov’s maturity and charisma, calling him a perfect fit for Montreal.
- He supports NHL expansion in Atlanta and is open to helping—if it’s more than just a ceremonial role.
McDavid in action (Photo by Steph Chambers/Getty Images)
Few Russian players have shaped modern hockey the way Ilya Kovalchuk has. A former first-overall pick, two-time NHL All-Star, and one of the top Russian scorers in league history, Kovalchuk has seen the game evolve on both sides of the Atlantic. Now, the 41-year-old legend is watching the next generation—and weighing in on some o,f hockey’s biggest storylines.
In a recent interview with RG, Kovalchuk shared his thoughts on Connor McDavid’s looming contract decision, the rise of Ivan Demidov, and the long-rumored return of NHL hockey to Atlanta, the city where his NHL journey began.
McDavid’s Decision Could Shape the League
With two years remaining on his current deal, Connor McDavid is eligible to sign an extension with the Edmonton Oilers this summer. After leading the team to back-to-back Stanley Cup Finals—falling just short in a heartbreaking Game 6 loss to Florida this year—the hockey world is asking: Should McDavid stay, or is it time to move on?
Kovalchuk sees the weight of the decision not just for Edmonton, but for the entire league.
“Honestly, I think this is bigger than just McDavid or the Oilers,” Kovalchuk said. “He’s the face of the NHL. If he leaves, it’ll be like when Wayne Gretzky was traded from Edmonton to L.A. in 1988.”
While speculation swirls, Kovalchuk believes McDavid is still fully invested in Edmonton—both emotionally and competitively.
“He’s come so close. Last year, they were down 0–3 and came all the way back. They lost Game 7, 2–1. But before the second goal from Florida, Edmonton had a great chance to go up 2–1 themselves. That’s how thin the margins are.”
Kovalchuk credits the Oilers’ chemistry—especially the dynamic between McDavid and Leon Draisaitl—as a reason for optimism going forward.
“They’ve got a great team. Leon can take over when needed, and there’s a solid core around them. I think the front office will make a few tweaks, maybe address the goaltending. But next year, they’ll be contenders again.”
Kovalchuk also pointed out that outside of McDavid, the Oilers don’t have many major contract concerns this offseason—a stability that could help convince the captain to stay long term.
Demidov, Shabanov, and a New Generation
One of the most talked-about Russian prospects this summer is Ivan Demidov. While some players return home to train after the draft, Demidov chose to stay in Montreal—to adjust to the city, learn the language, and prepare for his first full season.
Kovalchuk is impressed.
“That shows maturity,” he said. “In my first NHL year, I’m not sure I could’ve stayed in Atlanta the whole summer. I went home to Russia to train, and that worked for me. But if Vanya feels staying in Montreal will help him, then that’s 100% the right decision.”
Beyond his on-ice skills, Kovalchuk praised Demidov’s charisma and character.
“He’s a very positive guy. I only met him recently in Moscow. We had a good chat. You can tell he loves hockey—he lights up when he talks about it.”
Kovalchuk believes Demidov’s personality will be a perfect fit in Montreal, a city known for its intense media and passionate fans.
Maxim Shabanov, another Russian forward chasing the NHL dream, surprised many when he chose to sign with the New York Islanders instead of the Flyers. Kovalchuk wished him luck but offered some veteran advice.
“It’s clear he looked at where he’d get ice time and maybe play on the power play. That matters when you’re just starting out,” Kovalchuk said. “But roles change fast. What they tell you before training camp might not match what you get after 10 games. So you need to be ready—physically and mentally.”
Language and adaptation can also be hurdles, Kovalchuk warned.
“I don’t know how good his English is. That can be tough. It helps that the Islanders have other Russians—guys who can support him. But at the end of the day, you’ve got to be ready for everything.”
Atlanta’s Hockey Future—and Kovalchuk’s Role?
Kovalchuk’s NHL career began in Atlanta, where he was drafted first overall in 2001 and became the face of the now-defunct Thrashers. With news of a potential new investor and plans for a state-of-the-art arena, the idea of bringing NHL hockey back to Georgia is gaining traction.
“Atlanta is a big sports city,” Kovalchuk said. “They have the Falcons, Braves, Hawks—why not a hockey team too? If the league and Commissioner Bettman think expansion makes sense, I think it could work.”
Would he be open to helping out if the league returns to Atlanta?
“If they want to involve guys like me or Dany Heatley—I’m always open to creative opportunities,” Kovalchuk said. “But not just to have my name on a list and collect a paycheck. I want to be part of the process. If there’s a real goal, I’m interested.”
“You never know what offers might come your way,” he said. “That’s the beauty of this game—it always finds a way to surprise you.”
