Alex Kovalev. AK27. the ultimate enigma. Yeah, a lot of people hate him…some probably want to toss him into the UFC betting octagon and see Brock Lesnar pound his face in. Before you write him off as a total douche, though, watch this:

Wow. How can an online sports betting fan not gain some respect for him after that? He’s a phenomenal talent. In fact, some say he is the most naturally gifted player on the planet but only plays when he wants to.

Regardless of what NHL betting fans think of him, Kovalev’s days in Montreal appear to be numbered. He’s an unrestricted free agent this summer, he has publicly called out the Habs’ youngsters for being irresponsible in their night lives and appears to want out. Would you bet at the sportsbook on him re-signing? I didn’t think so. Even though Les Canadiens are in playoff contention, is it better for them to cash AK27 in while they can? Bob Gainey and the Habs face the same dilemma as Jacques Martin and the Panthers do with Jay Bouwmeester.

My thinking: deal him. Yeah, you lose a fan favorite and what could be a valuable Northbet.com wagering playoff contributor, but Kovalev only plays well every second year anyway and this is one of his “off” years. Pittsburgh makes so much sense as a destination that it hurts. The Pens could keep Evgeni Malkin with Petr Sykora, then pair Kovalev with Sidney Crosby, who desperately needs a winger who knows out to hit the black rubber thingy into the mesh. Kovalev played well in Pittsburgh before, so he could adjust quickly.

Two other teams for NHL betting fans to watch: Edmonton and Los Angeles. The Oilers are openly pursuing Kovalev while the Kings, who reportedly are chasing Gaborik, could try for Kovalev if they don’t get their man.