Flames Rumors: Insider Links Nikita Zadorov to Pacific Team

Calgary Flames defenseman Nikita Zadorov has been picking up a lot of steam in the rumor mill, as he, of course, requested a trade. The Toronto Maple Leafs, New York Islanders, Dallas Stars, and New Jersey Devils were recently linked to the big defenseman by NHL insider Kevin Weekes, but the former goalie has now reported that another team is heavily in the mix – the Vancouver Canucks.

Given the Beauvllier Trade to @NHLBlackhawks , I’m told you can add the @Canucks to the list of interested suitors in pursuit of D Zadorov from the @NHLFlames . #HockeyTwitter pic.twitter.com/sxKCjwbG0w
— Kevin Weekes (@KevinWeekes) November 29, 2023

The Canucks notably freed up $4.15 million of cap space last night (Nov. 28) when they traded Anthony Beauvillier to the Chicago Blackhawks for a fifth-round pick. This move now gives the Canucks more money to work with, and they certainly could use it to bring in a hard-nosed defenseman like Zadorov.

The Canucks have had a great start to the season, and they are in a prime position to be buyers because of it. They also have been wanting to add a defenseman, so it is entirely understandable that they are continuing to be connected to Zadorov. Let's see if they go on to win the sweepstakes from here.