The Canucks are in a position where they must reach an agreement with Nikita Zadorov, who rejected their offer but recently stated he has no plans to leave.
The big guy has developed a fondness for the city. Reciprocally the city and the team have taken a liking to him. Following his acquisition by the Canucks there was speculation that he might explore free agency. However recent reports indicate that there has been communication between the two sides. Nevertheless Zadorov and his representatives have made it clear to the Canucks that they wish to stay with the team as their conditions are met.
Zadorov shared insights on his contract situation during an interview with Sportsnets Iain MacIntyre;
"For me, the main focus is the term, for sure," Zadorov told Sportsnet in a one-on-one interview after last week's year-end press conferences. "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 in 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."
Zadorov has been moving around with his wife and two daughters but he mentioned that his family enjoyed their time in Vancouver. Considering the role families play in players decision making processes, it is likely that Zadorov will put in effort to make Vancouver their permanent residence.
"Obviously, there's a lot of interest in the family stuff. But the main interest is to win the Stanley Cup. (This was) my fifth playoff... and I haven't been past the second round. I think for me, it's just to find a team or home where I have a chance to win a Stanley Cup. That's the main focus, for sure. And I believe Vancouver is one of them."
As of now the Canucks have secured contracts, with two defensemen for the season; Quinn Hughes, Noah Juulsen and hold rights to Filip Hronek. Bringing Nikita Zadorov on board could definitely play a role, in the teams quest to reclaim their glory from the 2023-2024 season.
