As far as Zadorov is concerned, the Flames are actually in a similar position to where they were last season. They entered the 2021-22 campaign with plenty to prove and went on to have a fantastic season. Now once again, there are substantial doubts about the team. With people doubting them, Zadorov expects the team to enter the season with a chip on their shoulders. “We’re going to start with little goals and then we’re going to increase those goals as the season goes on," Zadorov said. "I think the mindset is play right hockey every night, compete and keep earning respect from the league. We earned some respect last year. It wasn’t enough. Now, we need to take the next step forward.”

Zadorov will get an AAV of $3.75 million. The tough defenseman played in the playoffs with broken ribs and has all off-season to recover. He had four goals and 22 points in 74 games with 77 minutes spent in the sin bin during the regular season.

Zadorov had three assists in 12 playoff games while averaging 18:08 minutes. He didn't miss a single Flames postseason contest this year. With the Flames' run over, he now has plenty of time to recover from his injury.

"While there was significant head contact on this play, Zadorov took a proper angle of approach, did not extend outward or upward, and hit through Glendening’s core," NHL Player Safety announced on Twitter. "Therefore, under Rule 48.1 (i), the head contact was determined to be unavoidable." It appeared as though Zadorov could be suspended for Game 7 on Sunday against Dallas once a hearing was announced for Saturday, but he will be able to play in the series-deciding contest.