Kovalchuk returns to KHL on 2-year deal

Former Washington Capitals forward Ilya Kovalchuk inked a two-year deal with the KHL's Avangard Omsk, the league announced Saturday.

Kovalchuk, 37, returned to the NHL on a three-year pact with the Los Angeles Kings in 2018-19, but he endured a roller-coaster season in 2019-20.

The Kings terminated the 6-foot-3 veteran's contract in December before Kovalchuk signed with the Montreal Canadiens in January. After rediscovering his game during a strong stint in Montreal, the Canadiens sent Kovalchuk to the Washington Capitals at the trade deadline.

He tallied 10 goals and 26 points over 46 games spread among the three clubs, adding one assist in eight playoff contests for the Capitals.

The 2001 first overall pick has amassed 433 goals and 423 assists across 926 NHL games. He earned the Rocket Richard Trophy in 2003-04 and is the Atlanta Thrashers/Winnipeg Jets franchise leader in goals (328), and Kovalchuk ranks second in points (615).