In an unexpected turn of events, free agent forward Filip Zadina is set to sign a professional tryout (PTO) deal with one of three teams, rather than the initially reported Buffalo Sabres. Czech reporter Pavel Barta indicates that Zadina will choose from the Toronto Maple Leafs, Montreal Canadiens, and Colorado Avalanche, all of whom have submitted tryout contracts for the upcoming training camps.
Agent Darren Ferris informed Lance Lysowski of the Buffalo News that Zadina is close to a PTO deal but will sign with another team. Speculation surrounds the Maple Leafs, Avalanche, and Canadiens. If this information is accurate, the 24-year-old Zadina aims to prove himself worthy of a regular-season roster spot post-PTO.
Originally a top-tier prospect, Zadina was drafted 6th overall by the Detroit Red Wings in the 2018 NHL Draft. However, over six seasons in the NHL, he has scored only 41 goals in 262 games. His youth and potential still attract interest, as franchises are hopeful about his reclamation.
Montreal’s pursuit of Zadina is particularly noteworthy, especially since they passed on him at the 3rd pick in 2018, choosing Jesperi Kotkaniemi instead. At the time, Zadina famously stated he would “fill their net” with goals—a claim that has become ironic given his scoring struggles.
Notably, Zadina recently had his best goal-scoring season, netting 13 goals and assisting 10 for a total of 23 points in 72 games with the Sharks during the 2023-24 regular season. Overall, Zadina presents an appealing low-risk, high-reward opportunity for teams like Montreal, Toronto, and Colorado as they gear up for the upcoming season.
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