Bruins’ Nikita Zadorov Stands by His Rules with Maple Leafs Fight
Nikita Zadorov’s hard hit on Scott Laughton ignited a scuffle in Toronto. The Bruins defenseman upheld the unwritten code he advocated during a previous incident with Buffalo.
Zadorov was upset when Jordan Greenway declined to fight him after Greenway’s hard hit injured Elias Lindholm. Later, Zadorov’s second-period check knocked Maple Leafs veteran Scott Laughton off his feet, ending Laughton’s game.
The Fight with Bobby McMann
Shortly after, when Bobby McMann challenged him, Zadorov accepted the fight. The two engaged in wrestling and several grappling exchanges.
- McMann, shorter by five inches and with less reach, managed a few glancing right hands to the back of Zadorov’s helmet.
- Zadorov landed a couple of short uppercuts in return.
Neither fighter sustained serious damage and both were sent to the penalty box for five minutes.
“Zadorov lived up to the unwritten rules he championed against Buffalo.”
Despite the physical confrontation, the skirmish ended without major injury to either player.
Author’s Summary
Nikita Zadorov demonstrated commitment to hockey’s unwritten code by responding firmly to challenges, maintaining toughness without severe injury.