Nikita Zadorov Buries Top Pick Matthew Schaefer, Then Islanders Fans Online
Nikita Zadorov proved once again that he is not someone to challenge, whether on the ice or on social media. New York Islanders defenseman Matthew Schaefer discovered this firsthand Thursday night when the powerful Boston Bruins blueliner leveled him at UBS Arena.
The incident occurred midway through the second period, with the Islanders leading 1–0. Zadorov delivered a heavy body check on Schaefer, driving him into the boards. As Schaefer tried to get up, he held onto Zadorov’s stick, prompting Zadorov to push him back down. This triggered a brief scuffle as several Islanders players rushed in to defend the rookie.
Officials assessed Zadorov a minor penalty for interference and a double minor for roughing as tempers flared on the ice. The moment quickly gained attention online, including a viral clip shared by B/R Open Ice.
“I looked at my PIMs from last year,” Zadorov jokingly told reporters after the game. “I need to get them up this year.”
Following the on-ice clash, some Islanders fans reportedly flooded Zadorov’s Instagram direct messages to voice their thoughts on his aggressive play.
Author’s Summary
Boston’s Nikita Zadorov sparked controversy after a forceful hit on rookie Matthew Schaefer led to a scuffle on the ice and a wave of reactions from Islanders fans online.