Defenceman Nikita Zadorov to test free agent market: Canucks GM
Vancouver Canucks' Nikita Zadorov celebrates with teammates after his goal against the Edmonton Oilers during the second period in Game 2 of an NHL hockey Stanley Cup second-round playoff series, in Vancouver, on Friday, May 10, 2024. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Ethan Cairns
VANCOUVER — Vancouver Canucks defenceman Nikita Zadorov appears to be headed to the free agent market.
Canucks general manager Patrik Allvin says the team tried its best to sign the six-foot-six, 248-pound Russian blue liner to a new deal, but he has decided to go elsewhere.
The NHL's free agency period begins Monday.
Vancouver acquired Zadorov from the Flames on Nov. 30, sending Calgary a fifth-round pick in this year’s draft and a third-round selection in 2026 in exchange.
The bruising 29-year-old defenceman contributed five goals and nine assists across 54 regular-season games for Vancouver, then added another four goals, four assists in 13 playoff appearances.
Drafted 16th overall by Buffalo in 2013, Zadorov has played for the Canucks, Flames, Sabres, Chicago Blackhawks and Colorado Avalanche over 11 seasons. He has 47 goals and 99 assists in 642 games.
This report by The Canadian Press was first published June 28, 2024.
The Canadian Press