In putting off his NHL return until next year - a decision confirmed Tuesday by his agent - Ilya Kovalchuk made it easier on himself to choose where he plays going forward.

To recap: Kovalchuk left the NHL in 2013, and in doing so walked away from a contract with the Devils that was not set to expire until 2025. That deal was eventually terminated, but the NHL subsequently ruled New Jersey would hold Kovalchuk's rights until he turns 35.

If he had decided to return this summer, he would have been forced to sign with New Jersey first, at which point the Devils could have traded him elsewhere.

Now, after presumably spending another season over in the KHL, Kovalchuk will become an unrestricted NHL free agent as of April 15, 2018, joining an impressive group of forwards set to hit the open market next summer.

Here's a look at the top options, from youngest to oldest.

Certainly John Tavares stands out from this group, but he could be signed to an extension by the Islanders at any time, similar to the one Carey Price recently agreed to in Montreal.

It can be argued all names on that list are better options than Kovalchuk at this point. But know this: Kovalchuk still has some game.

The Russian winger is coming off his best season in the KHL (32 goals, 46 assists in 60 games), including a league championship. He also hasn't been subject to the rigors of an 82-game schedule over the past few years, meaning he may return looking fresher than his age might suggest.

Without the hassle of trying to work out a trade with the Devils, count on more than a few suitors vying for his services next year.

- With h/t to Cap Friendly

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