Nikita Zadorov Buries Top Pick Matthew Schaefer, Then Islanders Fans Online
Nikita Zadorov has earned a reputation as one of the toughest players both on and off the ice. New York Islanders defenseman Matthew Schaefer found that out the hard way on Thursday night when the Boston Bruins defenseman delivered a crushing hit at UBS Arena.
The play happened midway through the second period with the Islanders leading 1–0. Zadorov completed his check by driving Schaefer forcefully into the boards. As Schaefer got up, he appeared to grab onto Zadorov’s stick, prompting Zadorov to shove him back down onto the ice.
A quick scuffle followed, as Islanders players rushed to defend their rookie teammate. Zadorov received a minor penalty for interference and a double minor for roughing.
“I looked at my PIMs from last year,” Zadorov said jokingly after the game. “I need to get them up this year.”
The incident didn’t end on the ice. Islanders fans also confronted Zadorov online, flooding his Instagram messages in defense of the young defenseman. As usual, Zadorov didn’t shy away from confrontation, answering back with his characteristic boldness.
Video highlights of the altercation quickly circulated, capturing the moment described by spectators as pure chaos.
Author’s summary: Zadorov’s heavy hit on Schaefer sparked both an on-ice melee and an online clash with Islanders fans, reinforcing his image as one of hockey’s fiercest personalities.