Nikita Zadorov rips one of his former teams

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Josh Tupper
May 25, 2024 (11:09)

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Nikita Zadorov, a defenceman for the Vancouver Canucks, didn't hold back when comparing the three NHL towns in western Canada.

Vancouver Canucks player Nikita Zadorov recently finished his ninth NHL season. Although he has always been a colorful character, in the last few seasons he has truly opened himself, saying whatever is on his mind at the moment. At a Vancouver media conference at the end of the season, Zadorov made the decision to try his luck against the Calgary Flames, a team he spent more than two seasons playing for.

In his typical deadpan manner, Zadorov told reporters right away that he was only there because he didn't want to be penalized, giving very little away as to whether or not he was kidding.

"Zadorov, 'I'm just here so I don't get fined.' I'm expecting him to still provide the most entertaining answers today. (Other than @patersonjeff vs Fil, of course😂) #Canucks"

The topic of Zadarov's feelings on playing in Vancouver swiftly came up after he asked for and received a trade from the Calgary Flames in November 2023. Zadorov, who began his career with the Chicago Blackhawks and Colorado Avalanche, complimented Canada on its passion for hockey. He made sure to take a jab at the Flames in the process.

"Hockey in Canada is different. I can compare it to Calgary, but the Vancouver fanbase is bigger. Calgary's not even the number 1 team in Alberta. #Canucks
@Sportsnet650."

Zadorov made a similar statement about the Edmonton Oilers during their second-round series against Vancouver, stating that he appreciated the team's love of hockey and assumed it was because there wasn't much else to do in the area. He was questioned in his most recent interview about the possibility that he had performed well enough to have priced himself out of a new contract with the Canucks. He informed the reporter that he should no longer pay attention to his Edmontonian colleagues.

"Why? How much do you think I should make."

"You've got to stop listening to Edmonton reporters."

Zadorov's current deal expires in July, which will make him an unrestricted free agent unless something can be negotiated with the Canucks before then.