Nikita Zadorov Responds to Islanders Fans After Incident with Matthew Schaefer
Nikita Zadorov fired back at Islanders fans who criticized him following an on-ice altercation with Matthew Schaefer during Tuesday night's game at UBS Arena.
Zadorov’s Social Media Reaction
After the game, Zadorov posted on his verified Instagram account:
“Get out of my DMs and go to the rink to cheer for your team. That place was a library tonight.”
He accompanied this message with screenshots of direct messages sent to him immediately after the game.
On-Ice Incident Details
- Midway through the second period of the Islanders’ 4-3 shootout loss, Zadorov delivered a two-handed stick hit to 18-year-old Schaefer behind the Bruins’ net.
- Zadorov then pushed Schaefer to the ice while the young player tried to recover his skates.
- This action sparked a confrontation led by Islanders captain Anders Lee and Anthony Duclair, resulting in a chaotic scrum.
- Zadorov was penalized with a double-minor for roughing and an additional two minutes for interference.
- While in the penalty box, Zadorov and Lee exchanged heated words.
Game Atmosphere and Attendance
The crowd of 15,585 at the 17,255-capacity UBS Arena voiced their displeasure towards Zadorov for the rest of the game. This attendance marked the fourth highest of seven home games this season, with only one sellout so far.
The Islanders chose not to comment on Zadorov's social media post and did not hold practice the following day. Fans loudly chanted for Schaefer and goalie Ilya Sorokin throughout the game.
Player Comments
“There’s going to be battles every night,” Schaefer said after the game.
Author’s Summary
The clash between Zadorov and Schaefer ignited strong reactions from fans and players alike, highlighting the intense physicality and passion of the NHL season.