Report: Nikita Zaitsev expected to sign with Maple Leafs next season

Russian defenseman Nikita Zaitsev has told teams he intends to sign a one-year, entry-level contract with the Toronto Maple Leafs next season, Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman reported Friday.

The undrafted 24-year-old is currently playing in his seventh season in the KHL, and third with CSKA Moscow. Last year, he set career highs with 12 goals and 20 assists in 57 games.

Zaitsev would add a much-needed right-handed shot to the Maple Leafs' blue line. The Philadelphia Flyers were also interested in his services, reports Dave Isaac of the Courier-Post.