Radko Gudas Suspended Five Games for Kneeing Auston Matthews, Season Ends for Maple Leafs Star
Anaheim Ducks defenseman Radko Gudas has been suspended for five games without pay by the National Hockey League’s Department of Player Safety for a knee-on-knee hit against Toronto Maple Leafs forward Auston Matthews. The incident occurred during a game on Thursday, March 12, 2026, at 15:43 of the second period, resulting in a major penalty for kneeing and a game misconduct for Gudas. The suspension and its financial impact were announced on Friday, March 14, 2026.
Details of the Incident and Suspension
The hit occurred when Matthews was attempting to handle the puck near the left faceoff circle in the Ducks’ zone. Gudas led with his left knee, making contact with Matthews’ left knee. Matthews immediately fell to the ice in pain and was helped off by a trainer and teammate Brandon Carlo. He did not return to the game.
Under the terms of the Collective Bargaining Agreement, Gudas will forfeit $104,166.65 based on his average annual salary. This money will be donated to the Players’ Emergency Assistance Fund.
Matthews Out for the Season
The Maple Leafs announced that Matthews will miss the remainder of the 2025-2026 season with a Grade 3 MCL tear and a quad contusion. He will be re-evaluated in two weeks.
Reactions to the Suspension
Judd Moldaver, Matthews’ agent, expressed strong dissatisfaction with the NHL’s decision, calling the five-game suspension “laughable and preposterous” in a statement to ESPN. Moldaver criticized the league for holding only a phone hearing, suggesting a more severe punishment was warranted given the severity of the injury. He stated the decision resulted in a “further loss of confidence in the disciplinary process.”
Maple Leafs players also voiced their opinions on the suspension, expressing concern over the lack of stricter penalties for dangerous plays. ( New York Times)
Department of Player Safety Decision
The Department of Player Safety determined that a five-game suspension was appropriate, as the incident did not warrant an in-person hearing, which is reserved for potential suspensions of six games or more. (NHL.com)
Looking Ahead
The suspension of Radko Gudas and the season-ending injury to Auston Matthews have significant implications for both teams as they approach the end of the regular season. The incident has also sparked debate about the consistency and severity of NHL player safety protocols. (ESPN)