Report: Zaitsev helping Leafs pursue top KHL free-agent

According to a report from Russian hockey insider Andrey Osadchenko, Toronto Maple Leafs defenseman Nikita Zaitsev has been instrumental in the team’s pursuit of top KHL free-agent Igor Ozhiganov. 

Last week it was reported that Maple Leafs head coach Mike Babcock and general manager Lou Lamoriello had travelled to Russia to meet with Ozhiganov in an effort to woo him to the team when his contract expires with CSKA Moscow after upcoming season. If this all sounds familiar, it’s not all that different from the team’s pursuit of Zaitsev, himself. In fact, the rookie defender looks to be in on the act. 

Check it out:

Interesting. Ozhiganov, like Zaitsev is a blue liner who can play with a bit of an edge. He’s 6’2”, 210 pounds and can really move for such a big man. The Leafs are lacking some size on the back end so he could be a welcomed addition, just don’t count your chickens before they hatch, Leafs fans.