$30,000,000 worth Nikita Zadorov reveals the reason behind his trade demand from the Calgary Flames
The Boston Bruins signed Nikita Zadorov to a six-year, $30 million deal to bolster their defense after losing to the Florida Panthers in the second round of the Stanley Cup playoffs. The Bruins struggled defensively as they had trouble containing Sam Bennett.
In the 2023–24 season, Zadorov played for both the Canucks and the Calgary Flames, recording six goals and 14 assists over 75 games. Following his reported trade request earlier that month, he was transferred from the Calgary Flames to the Vancouver Canucks on November 30, 2023.
In an interview with RG.org's Daria Tuboltseva, Zadorov talked about his trade out of Calgary.
"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."
Nikita Zadorov on him signing with the Boston Bruins
On July 1st, the Boston Bruins inked Nikita Zadorov to a six-year deal with an annual cap hit of $5 million.
"The Bruins were the best option, both in terms of hockey, which is always a priority, and family," Zadorov said.
The 6-foot-6, 248-pound defenseman has already begun making himself at home. He chose to stay in the countryside and avoid the busy city.
"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."
Nikita Zadorov joined the Bruins' with only one intention: "Money is great, but I want to win." Although he received offers from various teams, such as the Vancouver Canucks and Colorado Avalanche, Zadorov selected Boston for its promising chance to win.
When inquired about the key to greatness in the NHL, Zadorov was forthright.
"The most important thing is dedication," Zadorov said, "You become a star only if you dedicate your life to the game of hockey. Every minute of it. It's about character and leadership. It's all or nothing."
With Nikita Zadorov on their roster, the Boston Bruins are making corrections to the areas that they missed last season.