FLAMES NET NIKITA ZADOROV
The Calgary Flames acquired defenseman Nikita Zadorov from the Chicago Blackhawks for a third-round draft pick in 2022.
What does it give the Calgary Flames
In Zadorov, the Flames get a big, mean defender who will help on the penalty kill. After the Flames lost captain Mark Giordano to expansion, they needed more help on the left side of the defense. Zadorov cannot replace Giordano's minutes or his offense, but he should provide some help in defensive situations.
What does it give the Chicago Blackhawks
The Blackhawks have made several moves to improve the squad this off-season, but they also needed to dump players to make everything work from a salary cap perspective. Zadorov, a restricted free agent this summer, became a casualty of Chicago's plans for change.
Fantasy impact
There is no fantasy impact here, as Zadorov will likely play a defensive role in Calgary (without huge minutes). He does not have to be drafted this year.
