Nikita Zadorov Misses Day 3 of Blackhawks Training Camp

When the Blackhawks took the ice for day three of training camp, defenseman Nikita Zadorov was deemed “unfit to participate”.

Due to the NHL’s tight-lipped terminology during training camp, the exact reason for Zadarov’s absence from the ice today remains unknown.

The 6-foot-5 defenseman fully participated in the first two days of Blackhawks training camp and looked rather impressive during drills.

The Blackhawks acquired Zadorov in an offseason trade that sent Brandon Saad to the Colorado Avalanche. In a season that will be more about development than results, the big blue-liner is expected to provide a physical, reliable presence on the back end while also serving as a mentor for the Blackhawks’ young defensemen.

Hopefully the “unfit to participate” designation is just a minor ailment that doesn’t require an extended absence. The Blackhawks are already banged up enough as things currently stand.