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.

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