The Toronto Maple Leafs may have just found their new defenseman: Nikita Zadorov has requested a trade from the Calgary Flames

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Pat Quinn
November 11, 2023 (7:39)

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After the conclusion of the Calgary Flames' 5-4 shootout loss to the Toronto Maple Leafs on Friday it was reported that Flames defenseman Nikita Zadorov has requested a trade from the organization.

Zadorov played 15:33, good for fifth-most on defense, scored a goal, was plus one, had two shots, one hit and one block. Apparently, the defenseman wanted to sign an extension recently with the team, but after the losing streak all extensions were put on hold and as a result of that, and recent low ice time, Zadaorov wants out of Calgary.

Zadorov asks for a trade out of Calgary, mentioning he would be fine to play in Toronto

At the conclusion of the game Kevin Weekes posted this message.

Reported here as well.

Chris Johnson also reported the defenseman would welcome a move to Toronto.

Zadorov's agent was also displeased with his clients lack of ice time in Calgary in recent days.

It appears as though the player wishes to distance himself from the team as soon as possible.

Zadorov could be a fit with the Maple Leafs on defense

The Toronto Maple Leafs could use Nikita Zadorov in the teams top six defense as the Leafs have been leaking goals a lot this season. In the teams past four games, including the game against Calgary, the Maple Leafs have given up four or more goals in each game.

The Flames would have to take back some salary for the trade to work, and that would likely be John Klingberg, who really has not worked out well for Toronto this season. Klingerberg's $4.15 million salary would go to Calgary with Zadorov's $3.75 million deal going the other way.

A trade scenario that makes sense could be Zadorov for Klingberg, Ty Voit, and a conditional second or first round pick, likely depending on where the team finishes in the playoffs.

As Read On The Score - Report: Zadorov requests trade from Flames