John Scott (photo by Christian Petersen, Getty Images)

In a sign that the NHL is off to a strange start, there have been no suspensions so far this season – and John Scott has a goal.

Scott, the 6-8 rugged forward, is better known for his hits and his fists and found himself being suspended for seven games last season.

But there he was Tuesday night, scoring his first goal as a member of the San Jose Sharks.

He caught Washington Capitals defenseman Brooks Orpik flat-footed and ripped a shot past Braden Holtby for the third goal of his career. It made the score 3-0 and Holtby was pulled.

Sharks GM Doug Wilson made Scott the Sharks’ lone free-agent signing this summer because he wanted to add toughness to the team.

Move looks pretty good now.