Bruins’ Nikita Zadorov Fights Maple Leafs’ Forward After Strong Hit
Nikita Zadorov's check on Scott Laughton ignited a fight during the game in Toronto. Zadorov adhered to the unwritten rules he previously upheld against Buffalo’s players.
The Bruins defenseman was upset when Jordan Greenway declined to fight him after a heavy hit that injured Elias Lindholm. Later, Zadorov delivered a powerful hit that knocked Maple Leafs veteran Scott Laughton off his feet and out of the game.
When Bobby McMann responded shortly after, Zadorov accepted the challenge. Their fight involved wrestling and tugging, with McMann—giving up height and reach—landing some light strikes to the back of Zadorov’s helmet.
Zadorov returned a couple of short uppercuts. Neither player sustained serious damage before they both received 5-minute penalty box penalties.
"Nikita Zadorov lived up to the unwritten rules he championed against Buffalo. The Bruins defenseman took exception to Jordan Greenway refusing to fight him after the Sabres heavyweight’s hit injured Elias Lindholm."
"McMann, who gives away five inches of height and about as much reach to Zadorov, landed a few glancing right hands to the back of Zadorov’s helmet. Zadorov connected on a couple of short-armed uppercuts."
Summary: Nikita Zadorov upheld his own code by engaging in a fight after a hard check took a Maple Leafs player out, demonstrating his commitment to on-ice justice without severe injury to either fighter.