December 1, 2008 Ilya Kovalchuk has scored eight goals and 13 assists over 23 games, but coach John Anderson decided to demote him to the fourth line, according to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution.
Our View:He is being paired with Marty Reasoner and Chris Thorburn. Anderson noted that he was going to make some changes as he has been displeased with the play of the team.
November 28, 2008 Ilya Kovalchuk scored his eighth goal of the season in his 22 game on ice for the Thrashers.
Our View:At his current rate, Ilya would score 30-goals which is a far cry from the 41+ goals that he has scored in each of the past four seasons as he has scored more goals in that time than any other NHL skater (197 goals). Consider this a good time to buy low on the Russian sniper if his current owner has grown frustrated with the slow pace.
November 22, 2008 Ilya Kovalchuk was held pointless with a (-1) rating as the Thrashers were shutout by the Blue Jackets 2-0.
Our View:Every player has an off game and this was more of an off game by a team than anything. He should be scoring again in not time.
