In more ways than one, Carey Price's blocker blows on prone New Jersey Devils winger Kyle Palmieri on Thursday night were free shots.
Related: Price throws repeated punches after Palmieri crashes the net
Because there's reason to suggest that he should have been ejected from the game.
According to the NHL handbook, if a referee deems that a goalie is using his blocking glove to punch an opponent in the head or face with an intent to injure, a match penalty is to be assessed.
Price took one swing at Palmieri's head before targeting the lower back with a series of unanswered blows before the assembly jumped in. The referee was in position to make a sound judgement call, and decided that the incensed goaltender's actions weren't worthy of a dismissal, instead issuing two minor penalties for roughing.
Price, who admitted he didn't know of such a rule, explained afterward that far too often he sees players charge through the crease without penalty, and that he had to take matters into his own hands.