With Ilya Kovalchuk's arbitration hearing set to begin today in Boston, several reports suggest a decision could be made public by Monday.
The NHL rejected Kovalchuk's 17-year, $102 million contract, claiming circumvention, only to have the NHLPA file a grievance and find the case in front of arbitrator Richard I. Bloch.
While the hearing could conclude on Thursday, upon which Bloch will have 48 hours to make his decision – though an announcement likely won't come until Monday, the Newark Star-Ledger first reported.
The Devils announced the signing prior to the NHL approving it because, according to the paper, they believed it did not break any of the rules set forth in the collective bargaining agreement.
Bloch, who has conducted NHL arbitration cases in the past, will hear arguments from both the NHLPA and the League before making a decision.
The New York Post reports a decision is expected to come in the Devils' and Kovalchuk's favor, upon which the team will have to trade away some of its current players to fit Kovalchuk under the salary cap.
According to the Post, players like Dainius Zubrus, Colin White and Bryce Salvador are at risk of being traded.
If, however, Bloch sides with the NHL, Kovalchuk would become an unrestricted free agent, upon which the Devils can renegotiate a contract or another team, perhaps the Los Angeles Kings, can attempt to sign him.
Files from:
Newark Star-Ledger
