Nikita Zadorov' Opens up about being banned from Russia with Free Agency Nearing
Vancouver Canucks defenseman Nikita Zadorov's getting ready for the big free agency showdown this summer. For him, it's about more than just picking a team. He wants a real home.
Ever since Russia's conflict with Ukraine kicked off, Zadorov's been outspoken in his support for Ukraine, even though he was banned from going back to his home country because of it.
#Canucks defenseman Nikita Zadorov (@zadorov_16) says he is unable to return to his home country of Russia for as long as Vladimir Putin is in power.
Zadorov criticized Vladimir Putin and the war in Ukraine during an interview last summer.
"I'd be in Siberia the next day" Zadorov said last week.
Zadorov criticized Vladimir Putin and the war in Ukraine during an interview last summer.
"I'd be in Siberia the next day" Zadorov said last week.
Yet, on the ice, he's a coveted blueliner. Last season was a breakout for him, bouncing between the Calgary Flames and the Vancouver Canucks. He put up —6 goals, 20 points, and 125 penalty minutes in 75 games. At 6'5" and 220 pounds, he's a big dude who knows how to throw his weight around and sacrifice his body.
Now, as the free agency hype ramps up, Zadorov's eyeing a six-year deal, possibly around $6 million AAV. But it's not just about the cash or the game for him. It's about finding a place where he can stand by his beliefs and feel at home with his family.
| POLL | ||
JUIN 2 | 80 ANSWERS Nikita Zadorov' Opens up about being banned from Russia with Free Agency Nearing Should Nikita Zadorov be allowed back into his hometown of Russia? | ||
| Yes | 59 | 73.8 % |
| No | 21 | 26.3 % |
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