Story perspectives

Colorado Leads Series, Manson Penalized for Butt-End

5/13/2026

Summary

Manson Double-Minor

Colorado defenseman Josh Manson received a double-minor for butt-ending Minnesota forward Michael McCarron in Game 4, Colorado winning 5-2 to lead the series 3-1.
After a five-game injury absence, Manson said he meant to punch, not butt-end.
McCarron called Manson a “dirty player” and asked why the penalty was only a double minor.
Colorado coach Jared Bednar said the penalty was appropriate, noting Manson’s 13-year career has no suspensions.

Summary

Avalanche Defeats Colorado

Avalanche defeated Colorado, moving the team one win from a conference-semifinal berth.
Josh Manson returned to Minnesota’s lineup on May 12 after missing five games.
A double-minor gave Minnesota a power-play, allowing Danila Yorov to score the Wild’s first goal.
Colorado answered in the third period with four goals, including three in the final nine minutes.
Michael McCarron protested officials after a hit, saying other NHL players shared his view.

History

Historical Context

The 2004-05 NHL lockout, which forced the cancellation of the 1,230-game season on February 16 2005, led owners and the NHLPA to sign a new CBA on July 13 2005. That agreement introduced stricter safety rules, including tighter boarding penalties, for the 2005-06 season. Today, a double-minor clash between Colorado defenseman Josh Manson and Minnesota forward Michael McCarron revives the post-lockout enforcement debate.

1 of 3

Manson Double-Minor

Colorado defenseman Josh Manson received a double-minor for butt-ending Minnesota forward Michael McCarron in Game 4, Colorado winning 5-2 to lead the series 3-1.
After a five-game injury absence, Manson said he meant to punch, not butt-end.
McCarron called Manson a “dirty player” and asked why the penalty was only a double minor.
Colorado coach Jared Bednar said the penalty was appropriate, noting Manson’s 13-year career has no suspensions.

1 / 3