Joe Sacco Makes A Surprising Change To The Bruins Penalty Kill Involving Nikita Zadorov
Boston Bruins head coach has announced a surprising change to the Bruins penalty kill involving Nikita Zadorov.
Killing penalties is a big thing for Nikita Zadorov, and now the Bruins are making a big change to their penalty kill and it involves Nikita Zadorov.
On Thursday night at TD Garden when taking on the Utah Hockey Club the 6-foot-6 defender got to show off how good he is at exactly that.
Nikita Zadorov put his big body to use, and dished out four hits, while getting some time on special teams.
Following the Bruins coaching change, it was a must win game for the team who have been off to a sluggish start.
The Bruins started off the year 8-9-3 before Sweeney felt like he was forced to make a coaching change.
Montgomery was fired on the Tuesday following the Bruins 5-1 loss to the Columbus Blue Jackets, and associate coach Joe Sacco has taken over for him since.
The Bruins responded well to the change winning 1-0 against the Utah Hockey Club, and they are all looking to take that next big step in their on-ice progression.
«Our team had a good game,» said Zadorov. «I thought we came in hot with passion. I think that's what we've been missing the first 20 games. We played a really strict defensive game, and didn't give up much. We really didn't have much, but our power play stepped in big, got a big goal for us and we got a W.»
Nikita Zadorov is enjoying his new role with the team on the special team's unit, who is filling in for Hampus Lindholm after he was sidelined with a lower-body injury.
«I love killing.» said Zadorov. «I think that's really important. It gets me going. It's a pleasure when you see the trust of the coaches in that particular (area). We did a pretty good job (Thursday) against two skilled units. Obviously, there were a lot of bounces going against us in the past, on the PK especially. It's important to be good in that during the game, because it gives you a chance to win some hockey games.»
During their game on Thursday, Zadorov maintained a highly physical presence the entire game.
He had a game high five hits, along with a blocked shot and was rewarded with 19:51 of ice time against the Utah Hockey Club.
He also tied Hampus Lindholm for second in penalty killing time with 6:46, and only Charlie McAvoy has logged more time then him.
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Previously on Bruins Insider
