Photo credit: The Hockey News
Vancouver Canucks pending unrestricted free agent defenseman Nikita Zadorov reveals he's been banned from returning to his hometown.
Nikita Zadorov, who is set to become a free agent, made a strong impression on Vancouver fans during his first season as a Canuck. However, his criticism of Vladimir Putin and the war in Ukraine means he cannot return to Russia.
Standing at 6'6" and nearly 250 pounds, "Big Z" had a standout performance in the Stanley Cup playoffs, scoring 4 goals and 8 points in 13 games as a defenseman. Many fans hope he will stay in Vancouver.
"Vancouver goal!
Scored by Conor Garland with 05:34 remaining in the 3rd period.
Assisted by Dakota Joshua and Nikita Zadorov.
Vancouver: 5
Edmonton: 4
#EDMvsVAN #Canucks #LetsGoOilers"
Scored by Conor Garland with 05:34 remaining in the 3rd period.
Assisted by Dakota Joshua and Nikita Zadorov.
Vancouver: 5
Edmonton: 4
#EDMvsVAN #Canucks #LetsGoOilers"
Zadorov became a beloved figure in the NHL after speaking out against the invasion of Ukraine. He posted an anti-war photo on Instagram shortly after the invasion began.
"STOP IT!!!"
In an interview last year, Zadorov criticized Putin's policies and the complacency of some Russians amidst the war.
"I'm disgusted. How can I go to a restaurant at the Patriarch's Pond and eat while people are being bombed 2,000 kilometers away from me?"
This interview likely resulted in Zadorov being unable to return to Russia. He has not returned since the war started and is now unable to go back.
"#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."
Zadorov criticized Vladimir Putin and the war in Ukraine during an interview last summer."
Despite being unable to return to Russia, Zadorov can find a new home in the NHL and spend his summer in Miami. Hopefully, more NHL players will join him in his anti-war stance.
As seen on hockeypatrol
Nikita Zadorov reveals he's banned from returning to his hometown
Nikita Zadorov reveals he's banned from returning to his hometown
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