Ice Scoopz: Wednesday Night

*-> A controversy surrounding Alex Kovalev has surfaced this afternoon as many french media outlets have reported that Alexei Kovalev has been spotted skiing at Mont Tremblant. The reports have the should be "injured" Kovalev taking in some sites on the mountain. Pictures have reportedly been taken by fans of the enigmatic superstar who has since then denied skiing but admitted to being at the hill. Many are believing now that Kovalev isn't indeed hurt but the team has asked him to stay away from the lockeroom till he gets his attitude turned around or till the team can deal him. Gainey did something similar in Kovalev's last season with the Canadiens where he was asked to go home and think for a few games before returning. It's been clear from the start of this romance that Kovalev's heart once again hasn't been fully committed to Ottawa. Even his teammates have been unfond of his work ethic including the captain Daniel Alfredsson. I heard from one source close to the team many of the younger guys he has barely said two words to this season. It's tough to say if his knee is really acting up again or if it's just a damage control injury conjured up to protect the team and the player. If it is a ploy then the Sens have done a really good job with it as most major sports media agencies have bought it up. It could be that Kovalev lied to the team or that he was actually just taking in sites while his family did the skiing. Ether way Ottawa will probably have to do some more damage control as this story begins to spin and ether way the Sens WILL look to get anything they can from the under achieving Russian sniper. St. Louis still has mild interest in Kovalev as well and the Pittsburgh Penguins who have been searching for a winger for Sid the Kid since the start of the season. If Nashville is in good position for a run they too could be interested in adding a bit of offense and have had good luck with unwanted underachievers in the past. Montreal is always going to be a source of Kovalev return rumors but it would be a long shot I believe as his cap hit is pretty steep and these rumors are merely fueled by the fans love of Kovalev and his desire to return to Montreal. I expect as the days go on we'll hear more about this incident as well as more possible destinations as Ottawa starts to push hard for a deal to rid themselves of anymore bad press.