Predicting every NHL team’s future Hall of Famers
Winnipeg Jets – Ilya Kovalchuk
It’s weird to see Ilya Kovalchuk here, but New Jersey Devils fans would have rioted if I put his name with them and I’m pretty sure nobody remembers his time with the LA Kings, Montreal Canadiens, or Washington Capitals. His best years came with the Atlanta Thrashers, who are now the Winnipeg Jets.
Kovalchuk’s NHL numbers are a tad bit lacking, as he hasn’t yet reached the 1,000 games played or 1,000 points milestones. He has, however, scored over 400 goals (443 to be precise). If Kovalchuk plays another two seasons, he’ll probably reach both 1,000 games and 1,000 points. Kovalchuk might even sneak his way to 500 goals.
Regardless of what he does from here on out, if you consider his international career and his outstanding prime, he’s done enough to be a Hall of Famer in my book. Just don’t let Lou Lamoriello be the guy who introduces him.
Must Read. Every NHL team’s most iconic moment in franchise history. light
Honorable mentions: Paul Maurice is high enough on the career wins list (seventh) that it’s time to start talking about him as a Hall of Fame candidate. But here’s my counterpoint – he’s also first in career losses. Herb Brooks is the only Hall of Fame coach in the modern era with a lower career point percentage than Maur