The Maple Leafs are interested in veteran free-agent defenseman Nikita Zadorov, who is testing the market after failing to agree on terms with the Vancouver Canucks. According to TSN’s Darren Dreger, Vancouver’s highest offer was $5 million, but Zadorov believes he can get more in free agency. At least ten teams, including the Maple Leafs, have expressed interest.
Toronto’s interest aligns with GM Brad Treliving’s focus on adding size and grit to the defense. Zadorov, known for these qualities, was a target for the Leafs before his move to the Canucks. Other interested teams included the Dallas Stars, New Jersey Devils, and New York Islanders.
The Devils might limit their offer to a short-term deal due to the development of their young defenders, Anton Silayev and Seamus Casey. Dallas and New York, however, could offer longer terms. The Stars may lose Chris Tanev, and the Islanders need defensive reinforcements.
Zadorov aims to create a bidding war among teams needing a solid top-four defender. At 29, he had six points in 21 games with the Flames and 14 points in 54 games with the Canucks last season, along with a career-high 125 penalty minutes. Despite his low scoring, he remains one of the market’s top defensemen, behind players like Tanev, Brady Skjei, Brett Pesce, and Shayne Gostisbehere.
With July 1 approaching, Zadorov has set his asking price above $5 million. He aims to sign quickly before other top defenders set the market price. Toronto’s recent acquisition of Chris Tanev’s rights could influence their pursuit of Zadorov, as Tanev seeks a similar salary. However, TSN’s Darren Dreger notes that Zadorov and Oliver Ekman-Larsson could still be in Toronto’s plans.
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