The Boston Bruins’ decision to sign defenseman Nikita Zadorov to a six-year contract worth $5 million annually, totaling $30 million, is being criticized as one of the worst contracts in free agency. Despite Zadorov being a top available defenseman, Scott Maxwell of The Daily Faceoff believes the Bruins overpaid for him.
“Zadorov exemplifies common mistakes made in free agency, particularly on the first day. This year, teams misinterpreted the Florida Panthers’ success, attributing it to physicality rather than elite defense,” Maxwell explained. “Teams, including Boston, overpaid for players like Zadorov instead of finding more cost-effective options. The Bruins’ loss to Florida in the second round led them to wrongly focus on physicality, resulting in overpaying Zadorov, which could hamper them long-term.”
Maxwell listed Zadorov’s contract as one of the five worst signed in free agency. Last season, Zadorov recorded 20 points in 75 games between the Calgary Flames and Vancouver Canucks and added 8 points in 13 playoff games with the Canucks.
Bruins GM Defends Zadorov Signing
Bruins general manager Don Sweeney defended the signing, stating Zadorov brings necessary swagger and the ability to play significant minutes. “The presence Z brings is crucial. He played top minutes in the playoffs against top players with swagger,” Sweeney said. “He has grown and defined his game, understanding what he brings to the table.”
Zadorov is expected to play with Andrew Peeke on the third pairing, according to DailyFaceoff.com.
Zadorov’s Excitement to Join the Bruins
Zadorov expressed enthusiasm about joining the Bruins, stating they were his top choice once he became a free agent. “I haven’t heard a bad thing about the Bruins in my 11 years. It was a no-brainer for me when they showed interest. Boston was always at the top of my list,” Zadorov shared.
Drafted 16th overall in the 2013 NHL draft by the Buffalo Sabres, Zadorov has played 642 NHL games with the Sabres, Colorado Avalanche, Chicago Blackhawks, Flames, and Canucks.