Nikita Zadorov admits he's banned from returning home
As he approaches free agency, defenseman Nikita Zadorov talks about being prohibited from going back to Russia.
This summer, Zadorov is scheduled to become a free agent. When the market for the experienced defender's services opens, he will be in high demand and likely receive several bids. For Zadorov, free agency means much more than just moving into a temporary residence for the duration of the season, unlike other players.
Ever since the War in Ukraine started, Zadorov has made it clear that he does not approve of the operation. Rather, Zadorov has been vocal about his support for Ukraine, even though he is aware of the dangers associated with criticizing the regime. Thus, Zadorov is searching for a place he can call home as he hunts for a new residence.
#Canucks defenseman Nikita Zadorov (@zadorov_16) says he is unable to return to his home country of Russia for as long as Vladimir Putin is in power.
Zadorov criticized Vladimir Putin and the war in Ukraine during an interview last summer.
"I'd be in Siberia the next day" Zadorov said last week.
Zadorov played in 75 games with the Vancouver Canucks and Calgary Flames during the previous season, contributing 14 assists and 6 goals. Zadorov played around eighteen minutes a night and added 125 penalty minutes. According to reports, the defender is seeking a six-year contract that would pay him $6 million year.
POLL |
Where will Nikita Zadorov end up? |
Vancouver Canucks | 76 | 33.9 % |
Toronto Maple Leafs | 40 | 17.9 % |
Carolina Hurricanes | 37 | 16.5 % |
Other | 71 | 31.7 % |
List of polls |
|
2 hours ago | By Axel Williams Gary Bettman & the NHL obliterated over horrible Frozen Frenzy schedule |
|
2 hours ago | By Axel Williams Travis Kelce & Jason Kelce recall hilarious and ridiculous Claude Giroux story |
|
3 hours ago | By Axel Williams Former Toronto Maple Leafs enforcer questions Ryan Reaves' toughness |
|
5 hours ago | By Axel Williams Andrei Vasilevskiy receives instant Karma for his disrespectful act on Morgan Rielly |
|
16 hours ago | By Axel Williams Patrik Laine gets massive injury update that will delight Montreal Canadiens fans |
|
18 hours ago | By Axel Williams Stanley Cup Champion Moe Lemay passes away at 62 |
|
20 hours ago | By Axel Williams David Perron steps away from the Ottawa Senators amid difficult family situation |
|
21 hours ago | By Axel Williams 15-year-old hockey player Timur Bariyev hospitalized with serious injuries after frightening hit |
Previously on HockeyUnplugged