Former 1st-Round Pick Who "Wants To Be A Flame For Life" Has Yet To Receive Contract Offer

Calgary Flames defenseman Nikita Zadorov, who had previously expressed his aspiration to have a long-term future with the team, finds himself in the final year of his current contract.

During an interview on Flames Talk with Pat Steinberg and Wes Gilbertson, Zadorov addressed his contract situation and the uncertainty that comes with it.

He acknowledged that he had indeed stated his desire to be a Flame for life back in mid-April.

However, as of now, Zadorov revealed that he has not received a contract offer from the Flames, leaving the future of his tenure with the team uncertain.

Nikita Zadorov ends the Flames' season with his first career hat trick 🎩 pic.twitter.com/Abtv9DGcvC

— B/R Open Ice (@BR_OpenIce) April 13, 2023

Last season, the 28-year-old scored 14 goals and 21 total points along with a +10 plus/minus rating across 82 games played with the Flames.

Flames fans and management alike will undoubtedly be keeping a close eye on how these discussions evolve, potentially hoping to secure Zadorov's continued presence on the team as he looks to solidify his place in Calgary's future plans.

Over his 10-year career, Zadorov has amassed 41 goals and 126 points across 567 games played.

He's a former first-round pick (16th overall) by the Buffalo Sabres in the 2013 NHL Entry Draft. Photo Credit: Sergei Belski-USA TODAY Sports