Nikita Zadorov's shuts down fake news from Vancouver Canucks reporter

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Josh Tupper
June 7, 2024 (10:42 PM)

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The agent of Nikita Zadorov has responded to reports that his client is in negotiations for a new contract with the Vancouver Canucks in an extremely direct and educational manner.

When defenceman Nikita Zadorov was dealt by the Calgary Flames to the Vancouver Canucks in November 2023, it was a perfect fit. Although the organization would undoubtedly prefer to keep him, if a new agreement cannot be negotiated, the 29-year-old will become an unrestricted free agency on July 1. His agent is now reacting to reports that he has had discussions with the Canucks.

Iain MacIntyre of Sportsnet reported recently that there has been "significant traction" on Zadorov's possible new deal in Vancouver.

"Amid Canuck coaching news the last couple of weeks, there has been significant traction in contract talks w UFAs Nikita Zadorov and Elias Lindholm. Maybe neither re-signs, but it's possible the Canucks could keep both players."

However, Zadorov's agent, Dan Milstein, insists that report is flat out wrong.

"Fake news."

For the team and Canucks supporters who are hoping that Zadorov will stay, that is undoubtedly bad news. Rumor has it that the organization and Zadorov tried to negotiate a new contract before the 2024 Stanley Cup Playoffs started, but they were unable to come to an understanding.

"News on Zadorov...

'[They] tried really hard before the playoffs to get the deal together but couldn't agree on number of years.'

'Since the playoffs They didn't hold any contract talks. As much as Big Z wants to stay, it's looking more and more that we are going free agency.'"

Zadorov recently ended a contract with a $3.75 million yearly cap cost. It's been reported that he wants to sign a contract for at least $4.5 million, which puts the Canucks in a difficult cap situation. Other teams will undoubtedly show a lot of interest in signing the grizzled blueliner if he is not signed by July 1.