Kovalchuk has missed the Devils last seven games with a shoulder injury. New Jersey has struggled without him in the lineup. He is firing light wrist-shots at Brodeur so he clearly is not ready to go yet, but it is a positive sign.
How many games Kovalchuk will be back in time to play is unknown. He obviously won’t play in Saturday’s home game against Toronto (or Sunday in Buffalo). Forward Steve Sullivan will play, though, for the first time since being reacquired in Wednesday’s trade with Phoenix.
Kovalchuk does not require surgery. This is a tough break for the Devils and Kovalchuk's fantasy owners. With only a few weeks left in the Fantasy season, Kovalchuk will be on the shelf for the majority of it.
Either way, it's good news that Kovy is going to be returning to the NHL despite missing some camp.
Despite the rumours - and still suiting up for his KHL club today - Kovalchuk is still expected to return this season.
Coach DeBoer says Kovy will be a gametime decision but you'd have to believe he will play if he feels he can.
Kovy will certainly help the Devils and your fantasy team if he can make it back for Game 3.
Looks like a groin injury but we don't know the severity. This certainly deals quite a blow to the Devils.
Might be time to try and buy low on the Russian sniper.
If there was any doubt Kovalchuk was playing tonight, now there isn't. Feel free to start your superstar winger with confidence.
Kovalchuk has been playing banged up over the last couple of games but probably plays through his likely groin injury. Should he miss any time, we will be sure to let you know.
Kovalchuk will draw back into the lineup tonight and play on the top line. Remember to set your lineups accordingly.
Check back for an update prior to Wednesday night's game against the Sabres.
Kovalchuk wants in for tonight's game and may get his wish if he skates well in warmups. Check back before game time for an official decision.
Kovalchuk will not play tonight due to a groin injury. Check back for his status on tomorrow's game.
Kovalchuk admitted to wanting to be 100 percent before returning. He did not participate in a full practice today but did skate before practice and stay around for most of it. Expect another update tomorrow.
Kovalchuk returns to practice, skating on his own for a number of minutes before joining the rest of the team. Look for him to return when he practices with his normal linemates.
If you own Kovalchuk, bench him tonight and tomorrow. Nick Palmieri will take his place on the top line for now.
Doesn't bode well for his chances of playing tomorrow although he did skate yesterday. We likely won't know his official status until tomorrow.
If you own him, bench him. He did participate in almost a full practice which is a good indicator he will return shortly.
