Canadiens Linked to Potential Trade for $30 Million Defenseman Nikita Zadorov
By Cole Shelton | Updated May 21, 2025
The Montreal Canadiens, fresh off a playoff appearance, are exploring ways to strengthen their roster in the offseason.
Using PuckPedia’s PukGM simulation tool, a fan-created trade scenario suggests Montreal could acquire defenseman Nikita Zadorov from the Boston Bruins. The proposed deal would see:
Montreal receives:
- Nikita Zadorov
Boston receives:
- Owen Beck
- 2025 second-round pick
- 2025 third-round pick
- 2026 second-round pick (originally from Columbus)
This trade could benefit both teams. Montreal would gain a physically imposing defenseman in Zadorov, while Boston would receive a young center and valuable draft picks. Zadorov, who tallied 22 points (4 goals, 18 assists) in 81 games this past season, is in the first year of a six-year, $30 million contract. He could slot into the Canadiens’ second defensive pairing and potentially replace the recently retired David Savard.
Owen Beck, a second-round pick in 2022, is projected as a future third-line center. He played 12 games for the Canadiens this season, registering one assist. For Boston, acquiring Beck and three draft picks adds youth and depth.
Canadiens Focused on Adding Size and Toughness
While Montreal still needs to solidify its center depth, team management is also prioritizing physicality. As one of the youngest teams in the playoffs, the Canadiens aim to become more difficult to play against. NHL insider David Pagnotta reported that team officials are targeting bigger, more physical players, particularly on defense and in the forward group.
Currently, the Canadiens have around $9 million in available cap space heading into the offseason.
Zadorov’s Desire to Be More Physical
Zadorov, one of Boston’s top free agent signings last year, expressed disappointment in how the season unfolded. He emphasized his intention to elevate his physical play next season, acknowledging that his size—6’6″ and 250 lbs—can sometimes lead to penalties. He recorded a career-high 145 penalty minutes this season and noted the importance of being disciplined while still playing with an edge.
