Nikita Zaitsev Stats

Ottawa Senators defenseman Nikita Zaitsev suffered a lower-body injury against Boston on Tuesday and will be out "for the next little bit." Zaitsev boasts only three points in 19 games this season, but the Senators rearguards have dropped like flies lately, and he has been an important part of the group, accompanying Thomas Chabot on the first defensive pairing. Jacob Bernard-Docker (ankle) is now set to take over Zaitsev's role. The 22-year-old has been out for over a month with a high-ankle sprain, but he has been back at practice and looks set to rejoin the lineup Thursday against Washington.

over 1 month ago

Ottawa Senators defenseman Nikita Zaitsev has been ruled out for four weeks with a heel injury. The Russian blue-liner was hurt early in Thursday's 2-1 loss to Tampa. Zaitsev has notched just two points this season with 45 hits and 40 blocks, and he doesn't carry a lot of fantasy value, but Senators head coach D.J. Smith has called him an elite defender and an underrated player, so it's a major blow for the team. Smith has also liked how Zaitsev has played with Thomas Chabot, and the Russian's absence could have a negative effect on his game. Jacob Bernard-Docker is set to fill the empty spot in the lineup on Saturday against Philadelphia.

over a year ago

Ottawa Senators defenseman Nikita Zaitsev suffered an early lower-body injury in Thursday's game at the Tampa Bay Lightning. He left the contest and did not return. Currently, Zaitsev is expected to be listed as day-to-day. The defenseman had been playing more and more. He averaged over 22 minutes a game over the past five contests. Also, Zaitsev had 11 hits and 10 blocked shots in that span with a half-dozen scoring chances. He may have just a goal and assist on the season, but the defenseman has played decently despite just 38% zone deployment. How long he is out for may determine if Ottawa tries to find a replacement or not.

over a year ago