On Thursday, the Vancouver Canucks shook the hockey world, acquiring left-shot defenceman Nikita Zadorov from the Calgary Flames for a fifth-round pick in the 2024 NHL Draft and a third-round pick in 2026.
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Insiders Reveal How Trade Fell Apart Between Maple Leafs and Flames
The reason why this trade was a surprise is because many thought Nikita Zadorov would end up in a Maple Leafs uniform. Insider Kevin Weekes revealed why that didn't materialize.
Efficient Cap management by the
@Canucks
in the Trade acquisition of Zadorov. I'm told the
@MapleLeafs
needed the
@NHLFlames
to retain salary during their pursuit of Zadorov to make it work on their end.
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Further to my last tweet ; I'm told the
@MapleLeafs
were trying to acquire both D Zadorov and Tanev from
@NHLFlames
. With the
@Canucks
Zadorov deal now complete, the #LeafsForever will continue shopping 🛒 for Blueline help.
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Elliotte Friedman later provided some more information on what happened.
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It seems Calgary is leaving their two salary retain options for later near the deadline so they can maximize on assets which is a smart move by GM Craig Conroy.
The Vancouver Canucks are also apparently not done shopping for a defenseman according to Elliotte Friedman. It sounds as though they are interested in signing Ethan Bear as a UFA once he becomes healthy near the new year.
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The Maple Leafs have now reportedly shifted their focus on Chris Tanev who in my opinion is the better fit to play alongside Morgan Rielly.
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