Insider Pegs 3 Teams With "Strong Interest" in a Zadorov Trade

Less than a day after officially requesting a trade, Calgary Flames defenseman Nikita Zadorov has plenty of suitors looking to make a deal. 

TSN Hockey Insider Darren Dreger said on Saturday that three teams have "strong interest" in Zadorov.

Tor, Van, and NJD are the clubs with strong interest in Zadorov. Tanev, solid right shot Dman is a huge draw and, of course, Hanifin. The Flames are in no hurry to sell assets. If a team steps up in a big way, everything has to be considered. I’m not sensing urgency from Cgy.

— Darren Dreger (@DarrenDreger) November 11, 2023

The Toronto Maple Leafs have an obvious need for a legit solid D-man. It's far from surprising to see their name on the list, and it's been heard for a few days now. Between injuries and poor performance, the Toronto blueline could use a boost from someone with the size and defensive skill of Zadorov. 

The New Jersey Devils have been off to a rocky start this season, particularly on defense. The 6'6" behemoth is the kind of presence that the Devils can truly use in their own zone. Zadorov, dare we say, can deliver hits in the fashion of a past Devils legend, Scott Stevens. 

The Vancouver Canucks are on the list, as insider Rick Dhaliwal has reported that the team has had a "longstanding interest" in the big Russian D-man.

As an impending free agent after the season, the trade cost might not be too onerous. 

Photo: Sergei Belski-USA TODAY Sports