Nikita Zadorov reveals that Bruins weren't top free agent destination

The Vancouver Canucks went all in on their quest for the Stanley Cup in 2023/24, ultimately leading them to land both Elias Lindholm and Nikita Zadorov. Unfortunately, that fell short, and with both players hitting free agency, the Canucks missed out as both signed huge deals to join the Boston Bruins.

Now, in a recent interview, Zadorov has surprised with his comments, revealing that inking a deal with the Bruins wasn't the ideal landing spot for him in free agency, as he would have much preferred to re-sign in Vancouver.

Given the success that he had with Calgary and Vancouver, it makes sense that Zadorov would have loved to continue playing in Western Canada, but given their salary cap situation, the team just couldn't do much to land him. According to reports, the team offered him upwards of $5 million AAV on a new deal, but in Boston he got the better term and money, and ultimately, they simply outbid everyone else, so now Zadorov will look to chase his Stanley Cup dreams in a new environment with an Original Six team.

Source: Blade of Steel
Nikita Zadorov reveals the Boston Bruins weren't his first choice