After an impressive campaign with the Vancouver Canucks, Nikita Zadorov is headed to Boston.

The defenceman signed a six-year, $30-million contract with the Boston Bruins on Monday, according to Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman. The deal carries a $5 million AAV.

Zadorov was acquired by the Canucks in November 2023 from the Calgary Flames in exchange for two draft picks. He subsequently played 54 games with the Canucks, scoring five goals and 14 points while averaging 17:04 TOI. He added another four goals and four assists in 13 playoff games. 

Canucks general manager Patrik Allvin announced Friday that the team had made its best attempt to retain the defenceman but that he had ultimately decided to go elsewhere.

Zadorov, 29, enjoyed his most productive season in 2021-22 while with the Flames, recording 22 points in 72 games while averaging 16:54 TOI. 

The Russian was selected 16th overall in the 2013 NHL Draft by the Buffalo Sabres and played there for two seasons. In addition to the Sabres, Flames and Canucks, Zadorov also spent four seasons with the Colorado Avalanche and one with the Chicago Blackhawks. 

The Boston Bruins have made a significant move in securing the services of defenseman Nikita Zadorov for the next six years. The 26-year-old Russian player has signed a contract that will keep him in Boston until the end of the 2027-2028 NHL season.

Zadorov, who was acquired by the Bruins in a trade with the Chicago Blackhawks earlier this year, has quickly become a key player on the team’s blue line. Standing at 6’6″ and weighing in at 235 pounds, Zadorov brings size, physicality, and defensive prowess to the Bruins’ lineup.

In his short time with the Bruins, Zadorov has already made a strong impression on both his teammates and the coaching staff. His ability to shut down opposing forwards, block shots, and clear the crease has been invaluable to the team’s success.

Signing Zadorov to a long-term contract is a smart move for the Bruins, as it ensures stability and consistency on the blue line for years to come. With his size and skill set, Zadorov is poised to be a key contributor to the team’s defensive efforts and help lead the Bruins to future success.

Fans of the Boston Bruins can look forward to seeing Nikita Zadorov in action for many seasons to come, as he continues to make his mark on the team and solidify his place as a top defenseman in the NHL.