You can follow Todd on Twitter @ToddCordell!

Despite retiring from the NHL with 12 years remaining on his contract with the New Jersey Devils, Ilya Kovalchuk is already thinking about a potentially returning to the NHL.

I took most rumors regarding a potential return with a few grains of salt this summer as none of the speculation had come from Kovalchuk himself.

That has changed as Kovalchuk finally confirmed a return to the NHL isn't out of the realm of possibility and that he'd still like to win a Stanley Cup one day.

Kovalchuk on NHL return: "I didn't forget about the Stanley Cup. It is still a goal. I'm only 30 and everything is ahead of me." (RIAN)

— Dmitry Chesnokov (@dchesnokov) August 26, 2013

Should Kovalchuk want to return to the NHL, the Devils will still maintain his rights despite the termination of his contract.

All 30 teams would also have to vote to allow him to return to the league, I believe.

Essentially if Kovalchuk ever wants to return the Devils control his fate. If he's not committed to playing with them, they'll likely vote against him returning to the league.

The conclusion of this story might not come for a couple of years, but if Kovalchuk wanted to return would you welcome him back on the Devils?

Leave your thoughts in the comment section.

**

A look at the Devils top five defence prospects.

A look at the Devils top five forward prospects.

Jeff Frazee signs in Italy.

Jaromir Jagr one and done?

Expectations for Adam Larsson?

Why the Devils will compete for a playoff spot.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Email: [email protected]

Join the Discussion: » 54 Comments » Post New Comment

» Thank you

» On the Chayka rumors and finalists for the Devils' GM job

» Notes on quotes from Lindy Ruff's appearance on 31 Thoughts

» The New Jersey Devils may not have hired the coach they wanted

» Notes on quotes from Ruff, Fitzgerald, and Devils ownership