"You get Alexei Kovalev: one of the most gifted wingers in New York Rangers history, one of the NHL's great "enigmas", and one of the first Russian-born players to leave a permanent mark on the league."
"The Rangers selected Alexei Kovalev 15th overall in the 1991 NHL Draft, making him the first Russian-born and Soviet-trained player ever taken in the first round. At a time when the Soviet Union was dissolving and Russian talent was finally flowing into the NHL, the Rangers believed they were drafting their version of Sergei Fedorov, a future superstar who only needed refinement."
"Unfazed by the pressure of ending a 54-year Stanley Cup drought, Alexei Kovalev was magnificent in the playoffs. He finished third on the Rangers in postseason scoring with 21 points in 23 games. His far-post laser past Martin Brodeur in Game 6 of the Eastern Conference Final against the New Jersey Devils helped spark the comeback that saved the Rangers' season."
Alexei Kovalev was selected 15th overall by the New York Rangers in the 1991 NHL Draft, becoming the first Russian-born and Soviet-trained player ever taken in the first round. The Rangers hoped he would become their version of Sergei Fedorov. Kovalev debuted in 1992-93, immediately demonstrating brilliance with 20 goals and 38 points in 65 games. He continued improving the following season at age 20, recording 23 goals and 56 points while accumulating 154 penalty minutes. During the 1994 playoffs, Kovalev performed magnificently, finishing third in Rangers postseason scoring with 21 points in 23 games. His crucial goal against New Jersey in the Eastern Conference Final helped spark a comeback that saved the Rangers' season, ultimately contributing to New York's Stanley Cup victory.
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