Canucks Acquire Nikita Zadorov From Flames

Canucks Acquire Nikita Zadorov From Flames

When the Anthony Beauvillier trade went down, you just knew that the Canucks weren’t done. I even alluded to exactly what they would do in the post. Nikita Zadorov is coming to town. The Canucks will add Zadorov to the blue line after striking a deal with Calgary.

The Canucks team account was the first to reveal the news. Vancouver acquires Zadorov for a 5th round pick and a third round pick in 2026. The 5th round pick that’s being sent to the Flames is the same pick they snagged in the Beauvillier trade.

General Manager Patrik Allvin announced today that the #Canucks have acquired D Nikita Zadorov from the Calgary Flames in exchange for a fifth-round pick in the 2024 NHL Entry Draft (acquired from CHI) and a third-round pick in 2026.

— X – Vancouver Canucks (@Canucks) November 30, 2023

We knew that Zadorov was going to be on the move at some point after he requested a trade. Zadorov is also an impending free agent so it’s not like the Flames had much of a choice in the matter. Either trade Zadorov or lose him for nothing in free agency. A trade had to go down to save face.

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Zadorov, 28, has notched six points in 21 games this season across 18:24 minutes of ice time. He’s also racked up 41 hits and 19 blocked shots this year. Of course, Zadorov is more of a defensive stalwart than an offensive point machine. Although, Zadorov cashed in on a career high 14 goals last season and does bring a wicked shot to the table.

At first glance, this seems like a great bit of business for the Canucks. Beauvillier stinks and was never going to be a top six player for this team. He was overpaid too. In totality, the Canucks only give up a third rounder for a significant upgrade on the blue line. How do you argue it?

Nikita Zadorov, acquired by VAN, is a physical defence-first blueliner whose mix of speed and aggressiveness has both positive and negative effects. Takes penalties and on occasion makes big mistakes, but strong defensive metrics and can carry the puck in transition. #Canucks pic.twitter.com/Kt6gqpQ9eU

— JFresh (@JFreshHockey) November 30, 2023

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