Ilya Kovalchuk appears to have his eyes set on a few new hockey homes.
In order for Kovalchuk to return to the NHL, he first has to sign a deal with the New Jersey Devils, the club that holds his rights following his retirement in 2013.
It's a step that could happen as of 12 p.m. ET on Saturday, and would likely be followed by a trade in order to get Kovalchuk to his preferred destination.
Three of the teams on Kovalchuk's wish list are believed to be the New York Rangers, Columbus Blue Jackets, and Toronto Maple Leafs, according to TSN's Pierre LeBrun.
Nothing appears to be imminent, however.
Hearing that the Devils don't have anything close trade-wise on Kovalchuck. Obviously that can change today potentially (con't)...
— Pierre LeBrun (@PierreVLeBrun) July 1, 2017
LeBrun adds the feeling may not be mutual with respect to the Maple Leafs.
Kovalchuk registered 32 goals and 46 assists in 78 games for KHL club SKA St. Petersburg last season.
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