Senators Sign Alex Kovalev to Two-Year Contract

The Ottawa Senators acquired some much needed forward scoring depth on Monday by signing right wing Alex Kovalev to a two-year contract worth $10 million. The deal averages out to $5 million per season. The Montreal Canadiens were reportedly very interested in retaining the star winger and naming him their new captain for next season, but could not get a deal done. In 78 games last season with the Canadiens, Kovalev scored 26 goals and 39 assists for 65 points and 74 penalty minutes. In 1151 career games with the Canadiens, New York Rangers, and Pittsburgh Penguins, he has 394 goals and 547 assists for 941 points and 1200 penalty minutes. This is a decent signing for the Senators, as Kovalev brings the team lots of offensive skill, especially on the power play, leadership, and toughness. The only problem with the veteran forward is that he is a very streaky player. Some nights he will score several points and then go several games without registering a point. Many Canadiens’ fans will recall last season when GM Bob Gainey sent Kovalev home early on a road trip to condition himself and get back into game shape after going a lengthy stretch without scoring a point. This resulted in many hockey fans and pundits believing the Canadiens were very close to trading Kovalev, but no deal was ever made. This signing also ensures that Mike Comrie won’t be returning with the Senators next season, as they are very close to the salary cap ceiling. Comrie was rumored willing to accept a pay cut from last season to remain with the Senators. He was reportedly willing to sign for $2.5 million per season, but no deal was ever made. Comrie’s stock and production has dropped in recent seasons, so signing Kovalev is probably a wiser move for the Senators.