Radko Gudas Suspension: Fallout from Kneeing Incident with Auston Matthews

Anaheim Ducks defenseman Radko Gudas has been suspended for five games by the NHL’s Department of Player Safety following a knee-on-knee hit that resulted in a season-ending injury for Toronto Maple Leafs captain Auston Matthews. The incident has sparked debate about the severity of the punishment and the NHL’s player safety protocols.

Matthews’ Injury and Season End

Auston Matthews will miss the remainder of the 2025-2026 NHL season after sustaining a Grade 3 MCL tear and a quad contusion during a game against the Ducks on March 12, 2026. ESPN and AP News reported on the severity of the injury.

The Incident and NHL’s Response

The incident occurred in the second period when Gudas’ left knee collided with Matthews’ left knee as Matthews attempted to handle the puck. Gudas received a five-minute major penalty and a game misconduct. Following a phone hearing, the NHL suspended Gudas for five games. The Athletic details the specifics of the play and the league’s decision.

Criticism of the Suspension

The five-game suspension has been widely criticized as insufficient, particularly given Gudas’ history of suspensions. Judd Moldaver, Matthews’ agent, issued a strong statement calling the ruling “laughable and preposterous” and questioning the disciplinary process. ESPN published Moldaver’s full statement.

Toronto Maple Leafs coach Craig Berube as well expressed dissatisfaction with the length of the suspension, stating, “It’s not enough.” Several Leafs players, including Matthew Knies and Jake McCabe, echoed this sentiment, while acknowledging that their opinions wouldn’t change the NHL’s decision.

Gudas’ Disciplinary History

This is the fifth suspension of Gudas’ 14-year NHL career. He has now been suspended for a total of 26 games, forfeiting over $855,000 in salary. USA Today highlights Gudas’ extensive disciplinary record.

Leafs’ Response and Team Toughness

Following the hit, the Maple Leafs addressed a perceived lack of immediate response to the play during the second intermission. They reportedly played with more intensity in the third period, ultimately winning the game 6-4. The incident has prompted discussions about the team’s toughness and accountability for one another. The Leafs drew parallels to a similar situation in the 2023-2024 season involving a hit on Timothy Liljegren.

Looking Ahead

Gudas will be eligible to return on March 24th against the Vancouver Canucks. The Maple Leafs, meanwhile, are grappling with the loss of their captain and will continue their season without Matthews. The incident is likely to fuel ongoing conversations about player safety and the consistency of NHL discipline.