The Boston Bruins received a much-needed boost to their defensive unit as veteran blueliner Nikita Zadorov rejoined the team ahead of Saturday’s matchup against the Detroit Red Wings. Zadorov had been absent for the Bruins’ Tuesday night loss to the Anaheim Ducks in California while tending to a family matter but reunited with his teammates in Detroit later in the week.
After returning to the team, Zadorov participated in Friday’s practice session, ensuring he could reacclimate before stepping back into game action. His presence is a welcome sight for the Bruins, who have been struggling with an already depleted defensive corps due to injuries and roster moves.
“It’s good to have Z back and get a practice under his belt before the game,” said Bruins interim head coach Joe Sacco. “We need him back in there.”
The Bruins have been forced to shuffle their defensive lineup due to several key absences. Hampus Lindholm is out for the remainder of the season, while star defenseman Charlie McAvoy continues rehabbing a shoulder injury sustained during last month’s NHL 4 Nations Face-Off tournament. Adding to their woes, the team recently traded veteran defenseman Brandon Carlo and lost Jordan Oesterle on waivers, further thinning their defensive depth.
With limited NHL-experienced options available, the Bruins will rely heavily on Zadorov’s physical presence and defensive stability as they look to regain their footing. His return provides some much-needed reinforcement to a battered blue line, though the team will still need to find ways to compensate for their mounting losses on the back end.
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