Nikita Zadorov
Defensman Nikita Zadorov has been Erik Johnson’s erstwhile defensive partner. He’s such an exciting player. He’s big and more than a little wild. In fact, I’ve likened him to a wild mustang.
Unfortunately, Zadorov’s wild ways have been a problem for the Colorado Avalanche this season. It practically wouldn’t be an Avs game if Zado didn’t get a penalty. He’s third on the team (behind Jarome Iginla and, naturally, Cody McLeod) for penalties with 24 minutes. Zadorov’s undisciplined play even earned him a benching for a game.
It’s tough for a young d-man like Zadorov. It takes quite a few seasons to become a seasoned, disciplined defenseman. It’s very hard to balance physical play with that discipline.
Well, it’s time for Zado to make more of a concerted effort to do so. He was a key piece in the Ryan O’Reilly trade. He’s going to have to become more of a key piece in Erik Johnson’s absence.
Johnson has been excellent between walking that fine line between physicality and discipline. Zado will have to mimic him to help the team.