Bruins Signing of $30 Million Player Criticized as One of the Worst in Free Agency
Boston signed Nikita Zadorov to a six-year, $30 million deal, paying him $5 million per season. While Zadorov was a top defenseman in the market, Scott Maxwell from The Daily Faceoff believes the Bruins overpaid.
“Zadorov exemplifies two common free agency mistakes, particularly on the first day. This year, teams misunderstood the Florida Panthers’ success, thinking it was due to physicality when it was their elite defense,” Maxwell noted. “Teams often overpay for players like Zadorov instead of finding similar talents at a lower price. Boston’s second-round loss to Florida led them to overpay for Zadorov, which might hurt them long-term.”
Maxwell listed Zadorov’s signing among the five worst contracts in free agency. Last season, Zadorov split between the Calgary Flames and Vancouver Canucks, recording 6 goals and 14 assists in 75 games. He also scored 4 goals and 4 assists in 13 playoff games with the Canucks.
Bruins GM Justifies Zadorov Signing
Despite the criticism, Bruins GM Don Sweeney defended the decision, emphasizing Zadorov’s value to the team.
Sweeney said on July 1, “The presence Zadorov brings is crucial. He can play significant minutes against top opponents and brings confidence to our defense. Early in his career, he was inconsistent, but now he understands his role better.”
According to DailyFaceoff.com, Zadorov is expected to play with Andrew Peeke on the third pairing.
Zadorov Excited to Join Bruins
Zadorov expressed his enthusiasm for joining the Bruins, stating that they were his top choice once he hit the market.
“I’ve heard nothing but good things about the Bruins’ culture and team. It was an easy decision when they showed interest. I’ve always admired the Bruins’ style and wanted to play for them,” Zadorov said on July 1.
Drafted 16th overall in the 2013 NHL draft by the Buffalo Sabres, Zadorov has played 642 NHL games for the Sabres, Colorado Avalanche, Chicago Blackhawks, Flames, and Canucks.
