Nikita Zadorov Buries Top Pick Matthew Schaefer, Then Islanders Fans Online
Boston Bruins defenseman Nikita Zadorov once again proved his reputation as one of the league's most intimidating enforcers. On Thursday night, during a matchup against the New York Islanders at UBS Arena, he delivered a crushing hit to rookie defender Matthew Schaefer that quickly turned into on-ice chaos and online drama.
The Hit and Aftermath
The incident occurred midway through the second period with the Islanders leading 1–0. Zadorov finished a heavy check on Schaefer, sending him hard into the boards. As Schaefer struggled to get up, he kept holding onto Zadorov’s stick. The Bruins blueliner responded by forcefully pushing him back down, sparking an immediate scuffle between players from both sides.
- Zadorov received a minor penalty for interference.
- He also got a double minor for roughing after the altercation escalated.
Fan Reactions Spill Online
Islanders fans flooded Zadorov’s direct messages on Instagram following the incident, defending their young defenseman and criticizing the hit. The exchange quickly spread on social media under clips shared by B/R Open Ice.
“I looked at my PIMs from last year,” Zadorov joked with reporters after the game. “I need to get them up this year.”
Despite the penalties, Zadorov appeared unbothered, taking the whole situation with his trademark mix of humor and toughness.
Author Summary
Zadorov’s fierce check on rookie Schaefer at UBS Arena sparked an on-ice brawl and ignited an online clash with Islanders fans, reaffirming his reputation as hockey’s fearless enforcer.