Filip Zadina Makes Huge Decision

In a huge move to "bet on himself", Detroit Red Wings forward Filip Zadina has actually agreed to walk away from the remaining $4.56M remaining on his contract, making him a free agent and able to start over with a new team, with no strings attached.

Hearing #LGRW will place Filip Zadina on unconditional waivers at 12 noon ET today for purposes of mutual contract termination.

Zadina is foregoing the $4.56 million remaining on his deal, seeking a fresh start elsewhere. Huge courage to bet on himself.

— Frank Seravalli (@frank_seravalli) July 6, 2023

Zadina had a $1.825 million cap hit attached to him through the 2024-25 season on his existing contract, but this move to complete a "mutual contract termination" with the Red Wings leaves him wide open for any NHL team to sign him to a new deal. 

As Wings GM Steve Yzerman had said, "You wanted that contract... that contract may prevent you from getting the opportunity you’re looking for in another organization.” That is no longer a problem given Zadina's decision.

Coming off another very disappointing season (seven points in 30 games at the NHL level), the former 6th overall pick in the 2018 Draft is taking a huge chance, as it remains to be seen how much other teams will offer after his discouraging first five seasons in the league. 

The 23-year-old Czech has 28 goals and 68 points in 190 career NHL games. 

We projected three teams that could make sense for Zadina on a new contract.

 Photo: Jeff Curry-USA TODAY Sports