Don Sweeney Showing Interest In This Flames Player

An NHL source suggested that Sweeney might be interested in Nikita Zadorov, considering the Bruins' current style of play, which emphasizes size, aggressive forechecking, and a playoff mindset.

The source mentioned that Sweeney had previously looked into Nikita Zadorov, and with the possibility of a trade, the conversation revolves around a potential 1-for-1 deal involving Matt Grzelcyk.

A straight-up trade of Nikita Zadorov for Matt Grzelcyk would align with salary cap considerations.

Grzelcyk, 29, in the final year of a $3.6 million contract, is a left-shot defenseman like Zadorov, 28, who is also in the last year of a $3.7 million deal.

Both players excel in moving the puck, but Nikita Zadorov brings additional size to the Bruins, a team focusing on physicality, tight defense, and solid goaltending this season.

The potential trade could also prevent two Eastern Conference rivals from acquiring Nikita Zadorov.

ESPN NHL Insider Kevin Weekes reported on Friday that Nikita Zadorov was back on the trade market after requesting a move from the Flames.

Zadorov's agent, Dan Milstein, confirmed the trade request, and the prospect of reconciliation with the Flames seemed unlikely.

TSN NHL Insider Chris Johnston mentioned that Zadorov would welcome a trade to the Maple Leafs.

Further reports from TSN NHL Insider Darren Dreger indicated that the initial frontrunners for Nikita Zadorov included the Toronto Maple Leafs, New Jersey Devils, and the Vancouver Canucks.

However, with the Bruins now holding a six-point lead over the Maple Leafs and a nine-point lead over the Devils in the Eastern Conference standings after their 3-2 overtime loss to the Canadiens, the question arises: should the Bruins actively pursue Zadorov in the NHL trade sweepstakes to make an early statement in the Eastern Conference arms race, or should they maintain their current course for the time being?

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