Report: Kings' Kovalchuk 'definitely available' ahead of trade deadline

Los Angeles Kings forward Ilya Kovalchuk is "definitely available" ahead of the Feb. 25 trade deadline, according to The Athletic's Pierre LeBrun.

The 35-year-old Kovalchuk's in the first season of a three-year deal that carries a $6.25-million annual cap hit. However, he would need to waive his no-movement clause in any trade - something LeBrun reports he'd be willing to do for the right situation.

The veteran winger has produced just 26 points in 44 games during his first season back in the NHL, although a recent 11-game stretch has seen the former Rocket Richard Trophy winner heat up with four goals and nine points.

The last time Kovalchuk played in the NHL postseason, he led the New Jersey Devils to the Stanley Cup Final in 2012 with a team-high eight goals and 19 points in 23 contests.

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