In more ways than one, Carey Price's blocker assault on prone New Jersey Devils winger Kyle Palmieri on Thursday night were free shots.

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.

Related: Price throws repeated punches after Palmieri crashes the net

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.

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