Nikita Zaitsev, a Russian defenseman in the National Hockey League for the Chicago Blackhawks, has stated his intention to stay in North America and not return to the Kontinental Hockey League. The information comes from Match TV.
When asked about a hypothetical move back to a KHL club, Zaitsev made his position clear. He is focused on his current role in the NHL. There is no plan to pursue the Gagarin Cup qualifiers at the moment because his schedule is packed with obligations and training. His attention is directed toward the present and the demands of the season.
Now 31 years old, Zaitsev has appeared in 31 games this season and contributed five assists so far. His track record includes multiple high level appearances on the international stage, where he earned bronze medals at world championships on two occasions. In Russia, his development included time with Wings of the Sovets, Sibir, and CSKA Moscow, where he built his professional foundation before moving abroad.
In May 2016, Zaitsev signed a seven-year rookie contract with Toronto valued at $31.5 million, a deal that later intersected with a trade to Ottawa in 2019. That move sent him to a franchise where his contract extended through the 2023/24 season, shaping a key segment of his North American career.
Recent years saw Ottawa exchange Nikita Zaitsev to the Chicago Blackhawks, a transition that added another chapter to a career marked by steady development, versatility on the blue line, and a role as a reliable defensive presence for his teams.