Nikita Zadorov #91 of the Boston Bruins (Photo by Joel Auerbach/Getty Images)
"Money is great, but I want to win," declares Nikita Zadorov, the Boston Bruins' latest defensive acquisition. In an exclusive interview with RG, the 29-year-old NHL veteran didn't mince words about his priorities, setting the tone for what promises to be an intriguing chapter in his career.
The Road to Boston
Zadorov's journey to the Bruins wasn't straightforward. "The Bruins were the best option, both in terms of hockey, which is always a priority, and family," he explained. Despite offers from other teams, including the Vancouver Canucks and Colorado Avalanche, Zadorov chose Boston for its winning potential.
The Canucks Conundrum
Interestingly, Zadorov revealed that the Canucks were initially his "first choice." However, contract negotiations hit a snag. "We disagreed on the details before the playoffs and postponed the negotiations," Zadorov said. "After the playoffs, when I was in Vancouver, we tried to reach an agreement, but unfortunately, it didn't work."
The 2023-24 season saw Zadorov split time between the Canucks and Calgary Flames, tallying 6 goals and 14 assists in 75 games. His trade from Calgary to Vancouver on November 30, 2023, came after he had reportedly requested a trade earlier that month.
"Before the last season started, I made it clear to the management that I want to stay," Zadorov explained about his time in Calgary. "But in the end, all the other players received offers except me. After the season's bumpy start, we realized waiting until the trade deadline was pointless. We had to act quickly."
Boston Bound
The Bruins signed Zadorov to a six-year contract with an annual cap hit of $5 million on July 1st. The 6-foot-6, 248-pound blueliner has already begun settling into his new home, choosing to live in the countryside rather than the city center.
"The Bruins welcomed us very nicely," Zadorov said. "Our main intention was to find a new home and school for children. We did that. I also attended a practice and met the general manager, head coach, staff, and some players."
The Shadow of "Big Z"
In a surprising move, Zadorov asked fans not to call him "Big Z" out of respect for former Bruins captain Zdeno Chara. "I'm far from Chara," Zadorov admitted. "I heard that he came to every training camp and was the best at tests until the age of 40. He did 30 pull-ups at once and cycling tests better than anyone else. That's why he played so long and has so much respect in the League."
Zadorov admired Chara's professionalism and longevity, saying, "He lives in Boston, and I would love to meet and talk to him. I want to know what helped him to play at such a high level for so long."
When asked about what it takes to be great in the NHL, Zadorov didn't hold back. "The most important thing is dedication," he asserted. "You become a star only if you dedicate your life to the game of hockey. Every minute of it. It's about character and leadership. It's all or nothing."
"I have that, but not on the same level as the top players like [Nathan] MacKinnon, [Connor] McDavid, [Sidney] Crosby, and Chara. These guys have a different mindset. That's what makes them great at their sports."
Preparation for the 2024-25 Season
Zadorov detailed his off-season routine, which includes workouts in Florida and a gradual increase in ice time. "I prefer working in small groups because it's easier to focus and get the trainer's attention," he said. "Ilya Mikheev, Ilya Samsonov, and a few other Canadian players are practicing with me."
Despite the contract disagreement, Zadorov spoke highly of his time with the Canucks, particularly praising head coach Rick Tocchet. "Tocchet has a great system and is a great teacher who helps young players develop their skills," Zadorov said. "His analysis is excellent, and he understands how to prepare his players for each game."
Playoff Battles and Canadian Hockey Culture
Zadorov's playoff experience with the Canucks, especially against the Edmonton Oilers, provided some of the most talked-about moments of his career. His physical play against Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl became highlight-reel material.
"In Canada, fans love hockey. For them, it's a religion, a way of life," Zadorov explained. "They might not like you, but they understand you're just doing your job. I don't think they hated me. Yes, I made some comments about Edmonton, and everyone understood it was just fun and friendly banter."
Zadorov also weighed in on McDavid winning the Conn Smythe Trophy despite losing in the Stanley Cup Final. "No, I was not surprised," Zadorov said. "After such a performance, he deserved to win the Conn Smythe."
As Nikita Zadorov prepares for his first season with the Bruins, his comments and win-at-all-costs mentality are sure to make waves in Boston and beyond. Whether he can live up to his own lofty standards remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: the Bruins have acquired not just a defenseman, but a player unafraid to speak his mind and chase greatness.
Daria went to St. Petersburg State University and earned a bachelor of international journalism. Working as a sports journalist from 2014, from 2016 as a hockey journalist. Covered 5 World Championships, 2022 Winter Olympics, 2020 World Juniors, 6 Gagarin Cup Finals.
Owner of a telegram channel Coolest Game on Earth.
Integrative nutritionist specializing on sports nutritionology.
