Wild’s Michael McCarron calls out Avalanche’s Josh Manson for ‘dirty’ play

TL;DR

Josh Manson of the Colorado Avalanche received a four-minute double minor for butt-ending Michael McCarron of the Minnesota Wild during Game 4 of their playoff series. The incident sparked controversy and strong reactions from both teams.

Key points

Josh Manson received a four-minute double minor penalty
Incident occurred during Game 4 of the NHL playoff series
Michael McCarron delivered a hit on Manson before the altercation
The penalty was reviewed and reduced from a major to a double minor
Avalanche won the game 5-2

Colorado AvalancheMinnesota WildJosh MansonMichael McCarron

Colorado Avalanche defenseman Josh Manson found himself at the center of controversy during Colorado’s 5-2 win over the Minnesota Wild in Game 4 of their NHL second-round playoff series on Monday night.

The veteran blueliner, Manson, received a four-minute double minor for butt-ending Wild forward Michael McCarron during a heated first-period scrum. Still, the penalty decision led to strong reactions from both benches.

The incident began after McCarron delivered a heavy hit on Manson along the boards. As the players wrestled to the ice, Manson appeared to jab the blunt end of his stick into McCarron’s face area. Officials initially assessed a major penalty before reviewing the play and reducing it to a double minor for attempted butt-ending under NHL Rule 58.

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McCarron did not hide his frustration afterward. During an intermission interview with P.K. Subban on ESPN, the Wild forward blasted Manson’s reputation around the league.

“I mean, you played against Josh. He’s a dirty player. He’s always been,” McCarron said. “Surprised he got away with only a 4-minute. I’m happy he’s still in the game.”

McCarron continued his criticism after the game, arguing the officials missed the proper call.

“I blew him up, and he grabs me and pulls me on top of him,” McCarron explained. “He’s a dirty player. He took his butt- end and clearly butt-ended me in the face. I don’t know how it’s not 5 minutes. I think the rule book says it’s a 5-minute if you butt-end someone in the face. He’s a dirty player. He’s always been. Not very well-respected.”

Q&A

What happened between Josh Manson and Michael McCarron in Game 4?

Josh Manson butt-ended Michael McCarron during a scrum, resulting in a four-minute double minor penalty.

Why was Manson's penalty reduced from a major to a double minor?

Officials reviewed the incident and determined it was an attempted butt-ending, leading to the reduction of the penalty under NHL Rule 58.

What was the outcome of the game between the Avalanche and Wild?

The Colorado Avalanche won the game 5-2 against the Minnesota Wild.