The Vancouver Canucks will be in the market for a defenceman with Nikita Zadorov deciding to test the free agent market.
General manager Patrik Allvin spoke to reporters Friday ahead of the 2024 NHL Draft, saying the team made its best attempt to retain the defenceman but he has decided to go elsewhere.
Acquired from the Calgary Flames on Nov. 30, the 29-year-old was regarded as a rental-plus intended to deepen the Canucks’ defence and make them a bigger, tougher team for the Stanley Cup playoffs.
During the regular season, Zadorov averaged 17:26 time on ice and had six goals and 20 points in 75 games.
The six-foot-six Russian saw an increase in his role during the Stanley Cup Playoffs, contributing four goals, eight points and 45 hits while averaging 20:09 time on ice in 13 games.
“For me, the main focus is the term, for sure,” Zadorov told Sportsnet in a one-on-one interview last month. “I feel like I can play until 35 or 36 easily, on a high level. I think my body can do that. It’s not like I’m injury-prone. I feel like I can get to another level of leadership and hockey as well when I know I’m on this team (long-term). It’s just going to be easier mentally and physically as well, so I don’t have to move my family around.”
Nikita Zadorov, a talented defenceman for the Vancouver Canucks, is set to explore free agency opportunities this offseason. The 26-year-old Russian player has been a key contributor to the Canucks’ defensive unit since being acquired in a trade with the Chicago Blackhawks in October 2020.
Zadorov is known for his physical play and strong defensive skills, making him a valuable asset to any team looking to bolster their blue line. Standing at 6’6″ and weighing in at 235 pounds, Zadorov is a towering presence on the ice and has the ability to shut down opposing forwards with his size and strength.
During the 2020-2021 season, Zadorov recorded 9 points in 55 games while averaging over 19 minutes of ice time per game. He also led the Canucks in hits with 144, showcasing his willingness to throw his body around and make life difficult for the opposition.
As a pending unrestricted free agent, Zadorov will have the opportunity to test the open market and potentially sign with a new team this offseason. With his combination of size, physicality, and defensive acumen, there is no doubt that Zadorov will garner interest from multiple teams looking to add a reliable defenceman to their roster.
It will be interesting to see where Zadorov ultimately lands in free agency and how he will continue to make an impact on the ice for his new team. Canucks fans will surely be keeping a close eye on his decision as they hope to see him continue to thrive in the NHL for years to come.