Kovalchuk’s mother: Escrow, taxes led to son’s ‘civilized’ departure from NHL

Here are some more quotes from that conversation:

Ilya Kovalchuk had another dilemma in 2010 – to sign with the Devils for $100 million or to go back to Russia. Back then as a mother you unequivocally stood in favor of America. Why has your opinion changed?

“Maybe it didn’t change. But Ilya is a grown up man. He is responsible not only for himself, but for a big family. He made the decision. And I will support him either way. This is not a cliché, this is a fact.”

Did he like SKA during the lockout?

“Of course. Otherwise this question about leaving the NHL wouldn’t even be raised. And so it happened… Besides, there were some problems in New Jersey. You know there will likely be a change of ownership there. It’s unclear how everything will turn out.”

Is it true his salary was delayed by the Devils? [ed.: The question is unclear as it may be interpreted a number of ways]

“Yes, it happened. Now, after the lockout, there are a lot of restrictions at all teams. They are also underpaid 20% [of their salary]. The League takes it as an escrow that may not be paid back if the NHL does not make profit. And then there’s government tax of 50%. That means on paper you are being paid $10 million a year, but in reality only 3. So the pendulum swung for Russia.”

Have you read the reaction of Jeremy Roenick who said Ilya stole $23 million from the Devils?

“Thank God I didn’t see that! I am [on vacation] right now. But I think my son earned everything he’s been paid by the Devils in full! He played 30 minutes per game, sacrificed his health, and made it to the Cup Finals. He didn’t steal anything. He earned every cent. The things [Roenick said] may only be said due to helplessness.”

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