Predators' Filip Forsberg Takes Dangerous Shot at Canadiens Rookie Lane Hutson

It's difficult to watch something like this happen, particularly with a young player, but one can't help but question what was going through the mind of Nashville Predators superstar Filip Forsberg during a questionable moment on Sunday night.

The Predators were playing the Montreal Canadiens at Bridgestone Arena when Forsberg did a very dubious thing late in the first period.

With time winding down, Forsberg dished out a late hit to Canadiens rookie Lane Hutson, a hit that wasn't just far too late since Hutson had already let the puck go, but also seemed to be to the head.

Replays showed Forsberg diving head-first with his shoulder and elbow, seemingly aiming for Hutson's head. The puck had already been long gone, and the movement and timing were a cause for concern.

More infuriating for Montreal fans, though, was that the referees did not call a penalty, despite Hutson being visibly shaken and cradling his head after being struck.

No surprise, Canadiens fans are outraged. Hutson has been a valuable member of the team and is considered the favorite to win the Calder Trophy as the NHL's best rookie.

Although the referees in the game did not call anything at the time, everyone is holding their breath for the NHL's Department of Player Safety to decide whether supplemental penalties will be handed out for what most view as a reckless and intentional hit.

Fortunately, Hutson seemed to recover nicely, even picking up an assist later in the game. He's only two assists shy of tying the rookie defenseman all-time record now, an impressive feat, especially in the wake of such a troubling moment.