Zadorov shares his particular request as he moves from Vancouver to Boston

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Cooper Godin
July 5, 2024 (5:29 PM)

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When meeting with reporters after the announcement of his signing in Boston, former Canucks defenceman Nikita Zadorov showed a lot of respect towards a Bruins legend, Zdeno Chara.

The Boston Bruins announced earlier this week that they've signed Nikita Zadorov to a six-year contract worth $30 million total, $5.5 million annually. Losing Zadorov isn't easy for the Canucks, but the money and term he was seeking was something that Patrik Allvin wasn't able to get close to.

For years, Nikita Zadorov has been known by fans, his teammates and the media as 'Big Z' a reference to both his height and the initial of his surname. However, now that Zadorov is apart of the Boston Bruins organization, he's asked to no longer be called that nickname.

The reason why Zadorov wants to get away from that nickname is out of respect for another 'Big Z', Zdeno Chara, who spent 14 seasons with the Boston Bruins, captaining them to a Stanley Cup win in 2011.

On my old teams, they called me 'Big Z'. Please do not call me 'Big Z' ever again." Zadorov said.

Zadorov is a perfect addition for the Boston Bruins and plays an old-school style of game that the organization several decades ago. The Moscow native will likely slot in on Boston's second or third pairing to start the season, alongside either Brandon Carlo or Andrew Peeke.

Vancouver Canucks fans are hoping that Nikita Zadorov enjoys some success with the Boston Bruins during his six-year contract, except during the two times each season the two teams will meet.