Bruins Sit Zadorov Against Kings as Sturm Calls for More Discipline
Boston held Nikita Zadorov out of Saturday's game against Los Angeles as a healthy scratch. Coach Marco Sturm cited the defenseman's double minor against Anaheim and said Zadorov must show better discipline. The Bruins won 4-1 for their fifth straight victory while Pavel Zacha sat with an upper-body injury.
Zadorov watched from the press box Saturday after receiving a double minor Friday. He was penalized for elbowing Frank Vatrano and then roughing him, with Boston down 2-1 late in the second. Sturm said the defenseman has heard about discipline for a while and needs to be smarter. Zadorov has 29 penalty minutes in eight games, most on Boston and second-most in the league.
Jonathan Aspirot took his spot beside Will Borgen. Pavel Zacha missed the game with an upper-body injury, listed day-to-day. Boston still defeated Los Angeles 4-1, extending its win streak to five. The Kings remain without a win at 0-4-2.
This decision may affect Bruins players, fans, and younger hockey audiences by reinforcing that discipline matters alongside skill. Zadorov's teammates could see accountability applied consistently, while aspiring defensemen may learn that penalties carry consequences. Fans might debate whether benching a physical leader helps or hurts team chemistry. The Bruins' winning streak could soften criticism, but the message may shape locker-room standards and public expectations around coach Sturm's authority.