Nikita Zadorov Dominates Matthew Schaefer and Stirs Chaos Among Islanders Fans
Nikita Zadorov is not someone to challenge, whether on the ice or online. New York Islanders defenseman Matthew Schaefer found this out the hard way Thursday night after Zadorov, playing for the Boston Bruins, aggressively checked him during a game at UBS Arena. Islanders fans flooded Zadorov’s Instagram with messages afterward, defending Schaefer.
Incident Highlights
Midway through the second period, with the Islanders leading 1-0, Zadorov delivered a powerful check that slammed Schaefer into the boards. When Schaefer rose, still holding Zadorov’s stick, Zadorov pushed him back down onto the ice.
This sparked an immediate brawl, with numerous players in blue and orange rushing to support the rookie. Zadorov received a minor penalty for interference and a double minor for roughing on the play.
“I looked at my PIMs from last year,” Zadorov said humorously to reporters on Long Island after the game. “I need to get them up this year.”
Penalty Summary
- Minor penalty for interference
- Double minor for roughing
Zadorov's physical play and the ensuing chaos highlighted tensions between Bruins and Islanders players, as well as among fans on social media.
Author’s Summary
Nikita Zadorov’s aggressive play against Matthew Schaefer ignited both an on-ice brawl and a fierce reaction from Islanders fans online.