Canadiens forward Josh Anderson skates while dealing with strange upper-body injury

Josh Anderson has dealt with an upper-body injury since Montreal Canadiens training camp opened earlier this month, and we now have some clarity as to what’s been bugging the 28-year-old forward.

According to a report by TSN’s Darren Dreger, Anderson “has been dealing with an infection caused by what is believed to be a spider bite to his finger.”

(Yes, you read that right).

Anderson skated at Canadiens practice in Brossard, Quebec this morning. It’s unclear whether the Burlington, Ontario product is still receiving treatment for the bite (or, for that matter, how any new spider-related powers might be governed under the CBA).

The Canadiens acquired Anderson from the Columbus Blue Jackets in 2020. He scored 17 goals in 52 games with Montreal during the 2020–21 regular season and added five in 22 playoff contests as the Habs made an improbable run to the Stanley Cup Final.

In the second season of the massive seven-year deal he signed shortly after the trade, Anderson scored 19 goals and 32 points in 69 games with the last-place Canadiens.

Anderson may not be able to shoot both webs and pucks, but he has five years remaining at a $5.5 million cap hit and will be counted upon to help the Canadiens attempt to swing back into the playoffs this coming season.