Canadiens Josh Anderson Given Major Penalty For Dangerous Hit

Montreal Canadiens forward Josh Anderson was given a major penalty for boarding after a dangerous hit on Alex Pietrangelo.

Midway through the third period, Anderson rushed up the ice to hit Pietrangelo, as the Vegas defenceman was looking to dump the puck up the ice.

Unfortunately, Anderson didn’t let up in his momentum after Pietrangelo had shifted his body over towards the boards. Anderson hit Pietrangelo right in the numbers, and the defenceman hit the boards head-first before popping right back up to avenge the dangerous hit laid against him.

Suspension coming for Josh Anderson? pic.twitter.com/74B86Pr63O

— The Hockey News (@TheHockeyNews) November 6, 2022

Josh Anderson was given a five-minute major penalty for boarding and ten-minute game misconduct for his troubles, kicking him out of the game.  Yet, somehow, after the hit and ensuing brawl, it was the Montreal Canadiens that came out with the power play.

It was unfortunate timing, as the Canadiens had just lost the lead again and Anderson was clearly looking to lay a big hit to bring some energy to the group. The outcome was the exact opposite, as the Canadiens eventually went on to lose the game 6-4 to the Golden Knights in what was a heated and entertaining affair.

It remains to be seen whether or not Anderson will face any discipline for his hit, as the NHL is sure to review it given that it was a boarding major in the final frame of a game.

It wouldn’t be surprising to hear in the coming hours that Anderson will have a meeting lined up NHL Player Safety. However, this is likely to be a phone call, meaning the chances of Anderson being suspended will be quite low; unless the league wants to make an example our of Anderson early on in the season.

We’ll know more on Sunday morning when the NHL announces their decision on the Anderson’s fate.