Maple Leafs’ Auston Matthews Leaves Game with Lower-Body Injury After Collision with Ducks’ Gudas

Toronto Maple Leafs captain Auston Matthews exited Thursday’s game against the Anaheim Ducks with a lower-body injury following a knee-on-knee hit from Ducks defenseman Radko Gudas. The incident occurred during the second period and Matthews did not return to the contest.

Gudas Ejected, Power Play Opportunity for Toronto

Gudas received a five-minute major penalty and a game misconduct for the hit. Following the penalty, John Tavares scored on the ensuing power play to tie the game 3-3. William Nylander then scored early in the third period, also on the power play, to give the Maple Leafs the lead.

Details of the Incident

The collision happened with approximately four minutes remaining in the second period. Matthews received a pass near the Ducks’ net and attempted to avoid a check from Gudas, but their knees collided. TheLeafsNation reported that Matthews was slow to get up after the impact.

Gudas’ History of Penalties

Radko Gudas has a history of disciplinary issues throughout his 14-year NHL career. He has been suspended four times previously, including a 10-game suspension in 2017 for a slash to the neck of Mathieu Perreault although playing for the Philadelphia Flyers. TheScore notes that Gudas has registered over 100 hits in all but one of his seasons.

Matthews’ Season Performance

Prior to the injury, Matthews had scored his 27th goal of the season earlier in the period, ending a 12-game goal drought. He has 53 points in 60 games this season, his 10th in the NHL. LakelandToday reported on the goal prior to the injury.

Recent History with Gudas

Gudas was also involved in an incident during the recent Olympic quarter-final, taking out Team Canada captain Sidney Crosby, who was unable to return to the tournament. Canada ultimately lost the gold medal game to the United States.