Radko Gudas Suspended Five Games for Hit on Auston Matthews, Ending Maple Leafs Star’s Season
Anaheim Ducks defenseman Radko Gudas has been suspended for five games by the NHL Department of Player Safety for a knee-on-knee hit that resulted in a season-ending injury to Toronto Maple Leafs captain Auston Matthews. The incident occurred during a game on Thursday night, March 13, 2026, with the Maple Leafs winning 6-4.
Details of the Incident
In the second period, Matthews received a pass and was attempting to stickhandle when Gudas delivered a knee-on-knee hit. Matthews immediately fell to the ice in pain and was helped off by trainers and defenseman Brandon Carlo. He did not return to the game.
Injury and Recovery
The Toronto Maple Leafs announced that Matthews sustained a Grade 3 MCL tear and a quad contusion. He will be re-evaluated in two weeks, but will miss the remainder of the regular season. ESPN reports the injury effectively ends Matthews’ season.
NHL’s Response and Gudas’ Hearing
The NHL Department of Player Safety held a phone hearing with Gudas, indicating the possible suspension would not exceed five games. Suspensions of six or more games require an in-person hearing. Gudas received a five-game suspension.
Criticism of the Suspension
Judd Moldaver, Matthews’ agent, expressed strong dissatisfaction with the league’s decision. Sportsnet reports Moldaver called the five-game suspension “laughable and preposterous,” and criticized the disciplinary process, stating the Player Safety Department “should be suspended.”
Gudas’ History of Suspensions
This is Gudas’ fifth NHL suspension, totaling 26 games. Sportsnet notes his last suspension was in 2019. He was also involved in an incident at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan, where a collision with him ended Sidney Crosby’s tournament, though Gudas was not penalized for that play.
Coaches’ Reactions
Toronto Maple Leafs coach Craig Berube described the hit as “really dirty” and expressed disappointment that no Maple Leafs players retaliated. Anaheim Ducks coach Joel Quenneville defended Gudas, calling it a “reflex” action. ESPN detailed these coaching responses.
Fan Reaction
Social media has seen significant backlash towards Gudas, with many fans calling for a longer suspension or even a ban from the league.
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