Toronto, ON). Today was a day many saw coming, sniper Ilya Kovalchuk was traded to playoff contender Quebec Revolution. The details of the trade are as follows: To Quebec are Ilya Kovalchuk and Matthew Lombardi and to Toronto are Alexander Frolov and Jason Williams. This seems like a lopsided deal in favor of Quebec until future picks are included in which Toronto aquired Quebec's 2012 1st round draft pick.
GM Thom Welch said," we obviously are not a contender this year. Ilya asked for a deal to a contender and we have been working with GM Steve Findlen on this for some time. He was reluctant to take on the Kovalchuk contract but eventually felt it was the best move for his low scoring club that has tremendous defense. We like our return especially the promise of a high draft choice in a couple years. Frolov will fill the void this year and we hope Williams can provide some depth. In addition, cutting the Kovalchuk salary allows us to rebuild in the off season bringing in some UFA talent."
The move was projected for sometime but did not come together until the last two days. Ilya was sought after by several teams but none stepped up with an adequate offer until Quebec. Kovalchuk should make a huge difference to Quebec's offensively challenged club and their quest for their first HB Cup. Toronto meanwhile adds additional future promise to the club with a high draft choice and payroll flexibility. Welch said, " we wish Ilya nothing but the best, he was a great soldier for the Wolfpack. Lombardi will provide some good center depth for the Revolution as well."
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