Canucks Acquire Zadorov in Trade with Flames

The Calgary Flames made waves on Thursday by trading Nikita Zadorov to the Vancouver Canucks. In return, the Flames received a third-round pick in the 2026 NHL Draft and a fifth-round selection in the 2024 NHL Draft, originally acquired by Vancouver from the Chicago Blackhawks.

Zadorov, a 28-year-old defenseman, has tallied six points (one goal, five assists) in 21 games this season while averaging 18:24 of ice time per game. In the 2022-23 season, he recorded 21 points (14 goals, seven assists) in 82 games.

Unfortunately for Vancouver, defenseman Carson Soucy will be sidelined for another 4-6 weeks due to a lower-body injury sustained during a recent game. In his absence, right-shot defenseman Mark Friedman has shifted to the left side.

The upcoming matchup between the Canucks (15-7-1) and the Flames (9-10-3) is highly anticipated.

“Do I think we need another defenseman? I think we can get help on the back end, yes,” stated Vancouver general manager Patrik Allvin on Wednesday.

It’s important to note that Zadorov’s contract will expire after this season. As the No. 16 overall pick by the Buffalo Sabres, he has accumulated 132 points (42 goals, 90 assists) in 588 regular-season games with the Sabres, Colorado Avalanche, Blackhawks, and Flames, along with 11 points (four goals, seven assists) in 45 Stanley Cup Playoff games.

In response to the trade, Flames general manager Craig Conroy expressed gratitude to Zadorov for his dedication to the team. Conroy also highlighted the benefits of the trade in terms of acquiring draft assets, creating cap space, and providing opportunities for young prospects.

This report contains contributions from NHL.com independent correspondent Kevin Woodley.