Maple Leafs’ Clifford gets major, game misconduct for hit on Lightning’s Colton

Toronto Maple Leafs forward Kyle Clifford was assessed a five-minute major and a game misconduct for boarding after hitting Tampa Bay Lightning centre Ross Colton in the first period of Game 1 of their first-round series on Monday.

A two-minute minor was initially given for the hit before the play was reviewed and eventually changed to a major and game misconduct.

In 23 games with the Maple Leafs this season, Clifford has recorded one goal and two assists.

“I didn’t like Cliff’s penalty. Cliff’s hit is not a hit you can make there,” Leafs coach Sheldon Keefe said.