On Friday night, the Calgary Flames suffered a devastating shootout loss to the Toronto Maple Leafs. Adding to their woes, Nikita Zadorov has formally requested a trade.
Zadorov Seeks Trade from Calgary as Pending UFA
Although the Flames had already been considering trading the 28-year-old defenseman, his public request has now amplified the situation. With the team playing in Toronto, the connection to the Maple Leafs, who are in need of defensive reinforcements, is evident.
With Nikita Zadorov looking to be traded out of Calgary, word is the pending UFA defenceman would welcome a move to Toronto.
However, since this news broke, the New Jersey Devils and Vancouver Canucks have also emerged as legitimate contenders. This development suggests the possibility of a bidding war, even though the trade deadline is still months away.
Zadorov Uninterested by Playing for the Jets
One thing is certain: Zadorov has no interest in a trade to the Winnipeg Jets. It appears he is seeking a big-market team with a chance to contend for the Stanley Cup.
Word out of Calgary is that Nikita Zadorov does not have much interest in Winnipeg.
@TheHockeyNews has learned Toronto would be the Canadian city of choice.
The 28-year-old is in the final season of his two-year contract, carrying a $3.75 million cap hit.
"He likes the beach."
@TheHockeyNews has learned Toronto would be the Canadian city of choice.
The 28-year-old is in the final season of his two-year contract, carrying a $3.75 million cap hit.
"He likes the beach."
Ultimately, Zadorov lacks a no-move clause, so he cannot dictate his destination. The Flames will likely seek the best possible return in any trade, but one thing we can seemingly rule out following last night's news is a move to Winnipeg.
As seen on Hockey OTB - Calgary Flames Star defenseman not interested in getting traded to this Canadian City
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