Two things you completely forget to mention.
A) While this was one reason, it was certainly not his only reason
B) This is not relative whatsoever to his next contract and I could see why it would be appealing for him to play with and mentor many guys he already has played with in Russia. Furthermore, New York offers a Russian community unlike any other. I can't imagine he isn't intrigued with all the young Russian talent and former teammates on the Rangers and in their system.
P.S. Not saying I want him. I'm kinda split on the opinion and it depends on how the rest of the roster is filled out. That being said, your response was quite disingenuous.
Let me rephrase my
disingenuous post then.
He left the NHL for excellent money. He can enjoy Brighton Beach is he so chose without the Rangers bringing in some 20 year old Russian prospects.
And he doesn't give a flying f*** about
this in regard to returning to the NHL or choosing NYC.
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Also, to any future musings about Kovalchuk, I don't give a shit if he did well in the recent Olympics.
He's always been a been a bit of a prima donna, her's going to be 35, and all the other good players didn't play in the Olympics this year.
Grats on beating Germany though Ilya.