Tempers flared in Denver on Monday night when Colorado Avalanche defenseman Josh Manson made his return to the ice after a five-game absence. But instead of a hero's welcome, his comeback in Game 4 was marked by controversy.

Midway through the first period, during a heated scrum, Manson was assessed a double minor penalty for striking Minnesota Wild center Michael McCarron with the butt end of his stick. The play immediately drew the ire of McCarron, who didn't mince words after the game.

"He's a dirty player," McCarron said bluntly, calling out Manson's tactics. "That kind of stuff has no place in the game, especially in the playoffs."

The incident added fuel to an already intense series, with both teams battling for every inch of ice. For Manson, known for his physical style, the penalty was a costly misstep that could shift momentum in a tightly contested postseason matchup.

As the series continues, all eyes will be on whether this clash sparks further bad blood between the two clubs.