‘I’m just trying to help my fantasy owners’: Bruins’ Zadorov talks about recent hot play

Sometimes, even the best players in the world are aware of how much they are being watched, and by whom.

During a pregame interview with NESN rinkside reporter Sophia Jurksztowicz prior to Tuesday night’s clash with the St. Louis Blues, Boston Bruins defenseman was asked about his strong play as of late.

Jurksztowicz specifically asked how Zadorov has been more willing to jump in on the offensive side of the game. Zadorov, never the one to mince his words, said that he was going hard for a select group of people.

“Just trying to help my fantasy owners.”

Zadorov certainly helped people who had him in their lineups on Tuesday. The Russian blueliner posted an assist, a plus/minus of +3 and two shots on goal in a 5-2 win. It was the second game in a row that he had a +3 rating in a game, as Zadorov played well in a 4-1 victory against the New Jersey Devils last Saturday. The 6-foot-7 unit has also been laying the body, which racks up a certain number of points, depending on the league you’re in.

This isn’t the first “notable” quote from Zadorov this season. Last month, after a shootout win, on the road, over the New York Islanders, he was given flak on social media after cross-checking Islanders rookie Matthew Schaefer. The 30-year-old responded, telling fans to go to the rink, calling UBS Arena a “library” when Boston was in town.

Zadorov’s offensive numbers have been relatively inconsistent this year. In 31 games, he has notched a goal and nine assists for 10 points. Yet, he was a +8 rating while averaging 22 minutes of ice time per game.

The Bruins (18-13-0) sit third in the Atlantic Division, just one point out of first place. They’re scheduled to face the Winnipeg Jets on Thursday night.