Cristall ejected in heated preseason game

The preseason matchup between the Philadelphia Flyers and Washington Capitals on September 21 was marked by intense physical play and heightened tensions. Flyers forward Andrew Cristall was ejected after delivering a high cross-check to defenseman Hunter McDonald following a hard hit on his teammate, Ryan Leonard.

The incident began when McDonald checked Leonard into the boards, prompting Cristall to retaliate with a cross-check to McDonald's face, which led to a major penalty and game misconduct for Cristall, ending his night with 7:07 remaining in the second period.

Capitals coach Spencer Carbery defended Cristall's actions, stating, "His heart's in the right place," emphasizing the importance of sticking up for teammates. Despite the ejection, both McDonald and Leonard remained in the game, with no injuries reported.

The NHL's Department of Player Safety may review Cristall's actions for potential supplemental discipline, highlighting the ongoing competitive nature of the rivalry between the two teams as the Flyers aim to establish their identity for the upcoming season.