The Atlanta Thrashers' right-winger on being the rookie

by NHL | Jan. 14, 2002

There can only be one number one. Just ask Ilya Kovalchuk.

At the 2001 NHL Entry Draft, the Atlanta Thrashers made the Tver native the first Russian ever to be chosen first overall in the draft. The 18-year-old rookie has already been compared to other Russian standouts, including Pavel Bure and Sergei Samsonov.

Experts believe Kovalchuk will be very successful in the League due to his stellar performances this year. During the World Under-18 Championships, Kovalchuk had 11 goals and four assists in a six-game span. While playing for Russia's top professional league last season, he scored 28 goals in 40 games.

What is your happiest NHL memory?
Scoring my first NHL goal!

What aspect of being in the NHL gives you the greatest pleasure?
It is the best league in the world and I am playing in it.

What is the greatest compliment a fan could pay you?
They could ask me for my autograph.

If you went to an NHL game as a spectator, which player would you most want to see on the ice?
Mario Lemieux!

As a player, which opposing player would you NOT want to see on the ice?!
Danny Markov (he is my friend).

What advice would you give to kids stepping onto the ice with a hockey stick for the first time?
Try as hard as you can and give it your best.

Describe a perfect day off.
Watching TV or going to a baseball or basketball game.

If you could have one superpower what would it be?
I would score 200 goals a year for every season I play.

Besides your uniform and equipment, what are you sure to bring on every road trip?
My wallet and cell phone.

Have any pets?
A dog - and his name is Image.

Thanks, Ilya!
You're welcome.