Nikita Zaitsev, veteran of close to 500 NHL games with several different teams has reportedly signed a long-term deal in his home country, marking the end of his NHL career.
After nearly 500 NHL games across various teams, veteran defenseman Nikita Zaitsev has reportedly sealed the deal on his career in the league. Recent reports indicate that the 32-year-old has inked a three-year contract with SKA St. Petersburg in the KHL, marking a return to his home country.
This move isn't exactly unexpected. Zaitsev just wrapped up a hefty seven-year, $31.5 million deal he signed with the Toronto Maple Leafs back in 2017. His recent appearance alongside SKA's head coach in Russia only fueled speculation.
Zaitsev's tenure in the NHL, particularly his time with the Leafs, was marred by criticism, with his contract often cited among the league's worst. Following a trade request in 2019, he found himself with the Ottawa Senators before a stint with the Chicago Blackhawks.
Despite going undrafted, Zaitsev made his mark in the NHL, tallying 118 points over 482 regular-season games. SKA St. Petersburg, known for its competitiveness in the KHL, promises to continue his hockey journey in a new chapter.
