# Bruins D Nikita Zadorov Benched After Losing Cool

> Bruins defenseman Nikita Zadorov says he’s disappointed after being benched for losing his cool in a game.
- Title: Bruins D Nikita Zadorov Benched After Losing Cool | Shortify
- Summary: Bruins defenseman Nikita Zadorov says he’s disappointed after being benched for losing his cool in a game. Bruins defenseman Nikita Zadorov was benched by…
- Keywords: nikita zadorov, boston bruins, marco sturm, nfl, hockey, penalty minutes, boston bruins defense, news, local, Bruins, Nikita, Zadorov
- Source: The Boston Globe — https://bostonglobe.com/2026/10/19/sports/nikita-zadorov-benched-bruins
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: nikita zadorov, boston bruins, marco sturm, nfl, hockey, penalty minutes, boston bruins defense, news, local
## Zadorov benched after game
Bruins defenseman Nikita Zadorov was benched by coach Marco Sturm for Saturday night’s victory over the Kings in Los Angeles.
## Zadorov’s reaction to benching
Zadorov said he felt disappointed and disgusted about being benched after a physical play that led to a penalty.
## Play details
Zadorov made contact with Anaheim’s Frank Vatrano, who went down, and knocked him down again after the play.
## Zadorov’s hockey identity
Zadorov described himself as a big, physical defenseman who plays for the pride and team identity.
## Zadorov’s penalty record
Zadorov has a team-high 29 penalty minutes and led the NHL in penalty minutes for the last two seasons.
## Zadorov’s team support
Zadorov said his teammates supported him and he trusts them to help him return to the lineup.
## Coach Sturm’s stance
Coach Sturm said Zadorov will return Tuesday night but didn’t confirm the decision yet.
## Key takeaway

Bruins defenseman Nikita Zadorov was benched by coach Marco Sturm after a physical play that led to a penalty, but he remains committed to the team’s identity.