ts the gift that keeps giving.

An AP report indicates that the NHL rejected the 17-year, $102 million contract the Russian winger was offered to stay in Newark. Keep in mind this isn't quite "official" just yet, but it wouldn't be shocking if the deal upset many in the league offices. Here's more from that story.

Speaking on condition of anonymity because the NHL has not announced the decision to void the deal, the person tells The Associated Press on Tuesday night that Kovalchuk's contract is illegal because the years of low salary at the end of the contract were added for the sole purpose of lowering the cap hit.

The person added that no side believes Kovalchuk will play the final years of the deal at the low salary numbers that were agreed to in the deal. The star forward was slated to earn only $550,000 in each of the last five seasons of the contract.

Had enough, yet?

Thought it couldn't get any better?

Not enough time wasted, wives anger, children ignored?

Bets that Inside Kings Richie boy is cursing in his hotel room tonight.

League doesn't like the way deal is structured

http://prohockeytalk.nbcsports.com/

Update:  Oh Nooooooooooooooooooooooooo

"Dean Lombardi said tonight that the Kings would remain interested in signing Kovalchuk should the opportunity present itself, but it’s likely that the union will get involved and seek to uphold the deal."  --Rich Hammond

But, guess what, read the fine print, penalties may apply.  Aw, now NJ may have some problems making room for resigning so key players   Could this prevent them resigning  Parise?  Wonder what DL is thinking.

 LA Times  "To interview him in person is to love (and proposition) him" --Lombardi (with certain liberties taken)