Vancouver Canucks desperately clinging onto Nikita Zadorov
Photo credit: Bob Frid-USA TODAY Sports
After a strong performance in the Stanley Cup playoffs, the Vancouver Canucks are reportedly making a final effort to re-sign pending free agent Nikita Zadorov.
The Vancouver Canucks aimed to strengthen their defense at the start of the 2023-2024 season and took a chance by acquiring Nikita Zadorov from the Calgary Flames in exchange for future draft picks.
"The Vancouver Canucks have acquired Nikita Zadorov from the Calgary Flames in exchange for a 2024 5th round pick, and a 2026 3rd round pick."
Despite a slow start with just 14 points in 54 regular-season games, Zadorov made a significant impact in the playoffs. The towering defenseman scored 4 goals and assisted on 4 others in 13 postseason appearances for Vancouver.
"NIKITA ZADOROV SCORES ANOTHER PLAYOFF GOAL 🚨
The Canucks take the lead!"
The Canucks take the lead!"
It's no wonder that Zadorov has attracted attention from several teams and numerous fans as he heads into unrestricted free agency. According to Canucks broadcaster Rick Dhaliwal of Donnie & Dhali, however, other teams will have to contend with Vancouver, who are now intensifying their efforts to keep the player.
"Per @DhaliwalSports
The #Canucks are making one final offer to D Nikita Zadorov prior to start of Free Agency
Canucks have $24M in cap space to try and spend this offseason and Zadorov is 1 of 3 defenseman they would like to keep (Hronek and Myers)
We'll see what Patrik Allven and Vancouver can do"
The #Canucks are making one final offer to D Nikita Zadorov prior to start of Free Agency
Canucks have $24M in cap space to try and spend this offseason and Zadorov is 1 of 3 defenseman they would like to keep (Hronek and Myers)
We'll see what Patrik Allven and Vancouver can do"
While Zadorov has been valuable to the team, his return to Vancouver is not assured despite their efforts. The team's budget constraints and Zadorov's rising market value, coupled with his left-handed shot, may lead him to explore other NHL opportunities next season.
"The player and his agent Dan Milstein would love to re-sign in Vancouver but this is strictly about money.
If he was right-handed, Don, I'm telling you, he would've been signed months ago."
If he was right-handed, Don, I'm telling you, he would've been signed months ago."
Despite his standout playoffs and imposing size, Nikita Zadorov faces the possibility of staying with the Canucks due to their vigorous efforts to retain him, potentially bypassing the chance to explore other free-agent opportunities.
Source: Hockey Over The Boards
Vancouver reportedly making last push to retain Nikita Zadorov
Vancouver reportedly making last push to retain Nikita Zadorov
| POLL | ||
17 JUIN | 139 ANSWERS Vancouver Canucks desperately clinging onto Nikita Zadorov Do you think the Vancouver Canucks will be able to hold Nikita Zadorov for next season? | ||
| Yes | 57 | 41 % |
| No | 82 | 59 % |
| List of polls | ||
Latest 10 stories
