Nikita Zadorov Fined Maximum $5,000 For Punch On Alex Vlasic

Nikita Zadorov, the defenseman for the Boston Bruins, has been fined the maximum allowable amount of $5,000 by the NHL. This penalty came after a violent altercation in a recent game against the Chicago Blackhawks, where Zadorov struck Alex Vlasic while the Blackhawks player was already on the ice. The league's Department of Player Safety upheld the fine, citing it as the cap for such offenses under current rules.

The incident occurred in overtime of a 5-4 loss for the Blackhawks at TD Garden. Zadorov's fine signifies the league's serious stance on player safety and the seriousness with which they view such breaches. The brawl was sparked by a hard hit from Casey Mittelstadt, which led to a fight involving multiple players. Zadorov's act of punching a player already down on the ice drew particular disapproval from the league.

Zadorov faced a double-minor penalty and a 10-minute game misconduct, which ended his participation in the game. Despite the disciplinary action, the Bruins managed to secure a win in overtime. This incident underscores the high stakes and physical nature of professional hockey, and serves as a reminder of the league's commitment to maintaining a safe playing environment.