The New Jersey Devils have announced that forward Ilya Kovalchuk is retiring from the NHL.
“After many conversations with Ilya over the past year on his desire to retire from the National Hockey League, Ilya’s decision became official today,” said general manager Lou Lamoriello in a statement.
“On behalf of the entire organization, I wish Ilya and his family all the best in their future endeavors.”
Kovalchuk played 11 seasons in the NHL, including the last four with New Jersey. He retires with career NHL totals of 417 goals and 399 assists for 816 points with 516 penalty minutes in 816 games.