David Pastrnak Scores, Delivers Big Hit To Rangers' Girardi [VIDEO]
By Matt Dolloff, CBS Boston
BOSTON (CBS) -- David Pastrnak was one of the lone bright spots for the Boston Bruins on Wednesday night, notching his fifth goal of the season just 10 seconds into regulation. But he could also face discipline from the league offices after delivering a vicious hit to New York Rangers defenseman Dan Girardi during the Bruins' 5-2 loss, the team's third in a row.
Pastrnak started the Bruins off on the right note by putting the puck in the back of the net about as quickly as you possibly could. Zdeno Chara forced a Rangers turnover on an attempted breakout then Brad Marchand made a nifty backhand pass to Pastrnak, who powered toward the net and stuffed it through Rangers goalie Henrik Lundqvist for the quick 1-0 lead.
His goal was still not close to the NHL record for fastest goal to start a game (5 seconds, shared by three players), but in today's NHL it's hard to get off to a quicker start.
In the second period with the Bruins up 2-1, Pastrnak made a big open-ice hit to Girardi as the defenseman attempted to bat the puck down out of the air.
Pastrnak was penalized for an illegal check to the head on the play. He could be in trouble with the NHL's Department of Player Safety for the hit, as his feet left the ice and he drove his shoulder into Girardi's face. Pastrnak does not have a history of dirty play so it would be a bit harsh to suspend him for it, but he could still face a fine for leaving his feet and hitting Girardi high.
UPDATE: Pastrnak will have a hearing on Friday about his hit to Girardi, the NHL Department of Player Safety tweeted on Thursday.
It has to be encouraging for Bruins fans to see Pastrnak throw his body around like he did on Wednesday night, adding a physical dimension to his strong offensive game. He wasn't necessarily going for a "dirty" hit, as he led with his shoulder. He just needs to be more careful about leaving his feet and hitting guys in the head.
Matt Dolloff is a writer for CBSBostonSports.com. Any opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect that of CBS or 98.5 The Sports Hub. Have a news tip or comment for Matt? Follow him on Twitter @mattdolloff and email him at mdolloff@985thesportshub.com.
