Nikita Zadorov reveals he's banned from returning to his hometown

With a massive figure at 6'6" and nearly 250 pounds, the aptly-named Big Z made a massive showing in this year's Stanley Cup playoffs, earning 4 goals and 8 points in 13 playoff games this year as a defenseman. Given his dominance, many fans are hoping the player will keep his home in Vancouver.

Zadorov also became one of the most beloved Russian players in the league after becoming the first to speak out against the invasion of Ukraine. Shortly after the first invasion, he posted an anti-war photo on his personal Instagram.

Additionally, in an interview last year, Zadorov criticized Vladimir Putin's propaganda-riddled policies. He flamed Russian people who were enjoying their everyday lives while the war was still decimating the lives of many.

Despite this courageous act, this interview is likely what lost the payer the privilege of returning to his home country. Zadorov has not returned him since the start of the war, and now has no choice.

"#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."

Though Zadorov cannot return home, he can be assured that after he is done with his summer in Miami, he can make a new one wherever he goes in the NHL. Hopefully, he can be joined in his anti-war sentiment by his fellow NHLers.

Source - Blade of Steel
Free agent Nikita Zadorov banned from returning to his home country