Zadorov was acquired by the Canucks from the Calgary Flames midway through last season, and immediately became a massive part of the Canucks identity. His physical style and emotional play on the ice was critical for the Canucks making the playoffs for the first time in years. In the playoffs, he elevated his game on the highest stage, and scored an impressive 4 goals and 8 points in 13 games.
After trading Ilya Mikheyev to clear salary cap space and expected to make more moves, plenty of Canucks fans thought the team would be able to pay up to keep Zadorov. Canucks GM Patrik Allvin admitted that he's priced himself off the team.
It's been reported that Zadorov believes he could find at least a 6 year contract for $6M a season in free agency, and teams are lining up already to sign him. The Toronto Maple Leafs have been heavily connected to Zadorov due to their need on defence, and GM Brad Treliving's familiarity from Calgary.
