Kovalchuk hearing wraps up, decision by Monday
Arbitrator Richard Bloch now has four days to render a decision as to whether Kovalchuk's blockbuster deal with the New Jersey Devils will stand, or the star left-winger becomes an unrestricted free agent once again.
Bloch has until late Monday to release his decision.
The arbitrator has spent the last two days listening to arguments from both the NHL and the NHLPA.
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contract with the Devils was rejected by the league two weeks ago. The deal was worth US $ 102-million spread over 17 years.
The NHL said the contract circumvents the league's collective bargaining agreement.
If Bloch sides with Kovalchuk and the NHLPA, the league would immediately have to honour the contract. If not, Kovalchuk goes back to being an unrestricted free agent.
The Russian star made $ 7.5-million last season playing for both the Devils and Atlanta Thrashers. Prior to dealing Kovalchuk at the trade deadline, the Thrashers offered their star two long-term deals which were turned down by Kovalchuk and his agent Jay Grossman.