Nikita Zadorov of the Vancouver Canucks engaged in a physical altercation with Reese Johnson of the Chicago Blackhawks, resulting in penalties for Zadorov. The Canucks have had a 6-1-1 record since acquiring Zadorov. Additionally, Andrei Kuzmenko has been a healthy scratch multiple times, with coach Tocchet expressing the need to re-evaluate the lineup for future games. There are trade rumors surrounding Kuzmenko, with the Capitals reportedly interested in acquiring him.
Per Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman, the Capitals are among the teams believed to have looked into a trade for Andrei Kuzmenko. The Canucks sophomore, who had 39 goals last year, could be on the outs amid cuts to his ice time and healthy scratches. MORE: https://t.co/05MbcUg34a
Tocchet said DeSmith gets net tonight in Nashville and was short and to the point about Kuzmenko scratch: "I'm trying to win a game and I felt this was the best lineup and we'll re-evaluate for the Dallas game (Thursday). " #Canucks
Scenes from morning skate: Andrei Kuzmenko sits, DeSmith starts as Canucks two-step into Nashville https://t.co/zWjkdHlYAQ
Tocchet confirms Kuzmenko will be a scratch and that DeSmith will start #Canucks
In 10 games since returning from 2 healthy scratches in late November, Kuzmenko has 3G, 0A + 13 shots while logging 4th-line minutes 5-on-5 and PP1 time. #Canucks have been outshot 36-64 with him on the ice 5-on-5. Trending toward being a healthy scratch again Tuesday vs. NSH.
UPDATE: Kuzmenko healthy scratch for fourth time this season by ticked-off Tocchet. #Canucks https://t.co/3Z5fYCU2xx
So much for sticking with a winning lineup. Tocchet sends another message to enigmatic Kuzmenko with fourth healthy scratch of the season. He has but six goals, had just two third-period shifts Sunday. #Canucks https://t.co/PkXg43YbZW
Our #Bet99 poll question: Andrei Kuzmenko will be a healthy scratch tonight in Nashville. Will he last the season with the #Canucks? π» Email: TheTeam @ Chekmedia dot ca π± Text: 604-200-9494
Andrei Kuzmenko looks like the extra forward at #Canucks morning skate. Looks like he may be a healthy scratch, with PDG taking line rushes on the fourth line
Have you seen enough from Nikita Zadorov to sign him long-term? #Canucks
Canucks 6-1-1 record since acquiring Nikita Zadorov. Depth on defence is a helluva drug.
Our #Bet99 poll question: Did you agree with Nikita Zadorov's decision to fight Reese Johnson with the #Canucks up 2 goals in the 3rd period? π» Email: TheTeam @ Chekmedia dot ca π± Text: 604-200-9494
Reese Johnson lays a big hit on Elias Pettersson, and Nikita Zadorov immediately comes to his defense. Zadorov is hit with a 2-minute instigator and 10-minute misconduct in addition to the 5 minutes for fighting. #Blackhawks https://t.co/ewiNM5zjXY
Zadorov with the imposing reminder to not mess with Pettersson. #Canucks
Reese Johnson answers a Canucks player for a tackle on Anthony Beauvillier, and Zadorov quickly challenges him for a fight. Johnson happy to oblige, but it goes nowhere. Zadorov gets the instigator.
Reese Johnson has been fired up all night and finally drops the gloves with Zadorov, although it lasts about two seconds. Still jawing with him afterward.
Reese Johnson answers a Canucks player for a tackle on Anthony Beauvillier, and Dakota Johnson quickly challenges him for a fight. Johnson happy to oblige, but it goes nowhere.