Ilya Kovalchuk - This decision was something I have thought about for a long time going back

This decision was something I have thought about for a long time going back to the lockout and spending the year in Russia. Though I decided to return this past season, Lou was aware of my desire to go back home and have my family there with me. The most difficult thing for me is to leave the New Jersey Devils, a great organization that I have a lot of respect for, and our fans that have been great to me.

- Ilya Kovalchuk

topic: Home, Past, Russia, Back Home, Great Organizations, New Jersey