Ilya Kovalchuk reunites with Alexander Ovechkin for Cup run

The Washington Capitals are making moves before the trade deadline. Late Sunday, the Caps announced the acquisition of forward Ilya Kovalchuk from the Montreal Canadiens for a 2020 third round pick.

The Capitals are gearing up ahead of the Stanley Cup playoffs. Last week, the Caps acquired defenceman Brenden Dillon from the San Jose Sharks, and one day before the trade deadline, the team made another move.

Late Sunday, night, the Caps announced they’d acquired forward Ilya Kovalchuk from the Montreal Canadiens.

The 36 year old Russian recorded 13 points, scoring 6 goals and tallying 7 assists in 22 games with the Canadiens. Earlier in the season, Kovalchuk also played in 17 games with the Los Angeles Kings, scoring three goals and adding 6 assists.

“Ilya is a talented offensive player who we feel will provide us with additional depth and flexibility up front. He is a skilled forward who can make plays and contribute to our offensive game.”, Caps GM Brian MacLellan said in a statement.

The Canadiens are getting a 2020 third round pick in exchange for Kovalchuk, whose contract expires this summer.

Not only does Kovalchuk get a run at the Stanley Cup. He will also be reunited with his good friend Alexander Ovechkin, with whom he spent december 25 with.
They’ve also participated in several charity events along with playing together in the Russian national team.

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