Nikita Zadorov exposes Flames GM Craig Conroy

Following several months with the Vancouver Canucks, free agent defenseman Nikita Zadorov didn't have to wait long to find his new professional home after being unable to come to terms on a new deal to remain in British Columbia. He took his talents to the east coast, inking a six-year, $30 million contract with the Boston Bruins and taking one of the best blue liners available in free agency officially off the market. 

It was a late November trade that sent Zadorov to Vancouver from the Calgary Flames in exchange for a 2024 fifth round and 2026 third-round draft pick, but as he put it, he would have preferred to remain a member of the team rather than be dealt. 

However, he revealed that he never received an offer from Flames GM Craig Conroy. 

"Before the last season started, I made it clear to the management that I want to stay," Zadorov said, "But in the end, all the other players received offers except me. After the season's bumpy start, we realized waiting until the trade deadline was pointless. We had to act quickly."

Zadorov also tried to secure a new contract with Vancouver after they were eliminated from the postseason by the Edmonton Oilers, but negotiations went nowhere. 

"We disagreed on the details before the playoffs and postponed the negotiations," Zadorov said. "After the playoffs, when I was in Vancouver, we tried to reach an agreement, but unfortunately, it didn't work."

Meanwhile, he and his family are settling in Boston where they have felt welcomed with open arms. 

"The Bruins welcomed us very nicely," Zadorov said. "Our main intention was to find a new home and school for children. We did that. I also attended a practice and met the general manager, head coach, staff, and some players."

In the 54 games that Zadorov played following the trade to Vancouver, he scored five goals with nine assists, and he added another four goals and four assists in 13 postseason games. 

Recommended articles:

• Clint Malarchuk reveals how Miikka Kiprusoff avoided Bob Hartley
• Nazem Kadri reportedly wants to “return” to former club
• Flames reveal name and renderings of their new venue!
• Look back at first 2 years of the Matthew Tkachuk trade.
• Major change coming to Scotiabank Saddledome