Photo credit: Canucks Army

Free-Agent Nikita Zadarov has the right to return home to Russia, you’d think? You thought wrong, as he speaks out about being forbidden to return.

The veteran defenseman is about to become a free agent on July the 1st and will be a highly sought-after player. The arrangement is often temporary for some players, but for Zadarov the feeling is different.

Since Zadarov has spoken out in support for Ukraine during the ongoing conflict, he has been banned from returning to Russia. So for now, he will be looking for a more permanent home with his next club in the NHL.

#Canucks defenseman Nikita Zadorov (@zadorov_16) says he is unable to return to his home country of Russia for as long as Vladimir Putin is in power.

Zadorov criticized Vladimir Putin and the war in Ukraine during an interview last summer.

“I’d be in Siberia the next day” Zadorov said last week
 

Zadarov split last season between the Calgary Flames and Vancouver Canucks, scoring 20 points( 6 G, 14 A) in 75 games.

Zadarov became familiar with the penalty box, earning 125 PIMS this season, and played 18 TOI a night.

For the veteran defenseman’s next contract, he is reported asking $6 M over 6 years in 2024-2025.