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Ducks Forward Cutter Gauthier Injured in Physical Matchup Against Maple Leafs
Gauthier scored a power-play goal before leaving the game with an upper-body injury in the first period.
Mar. 31, 2026 at 4:05am
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A cubist interpretation of the physical clash between the Ducks and Maple Leafs, capturing the intensity and chaos of the game.Anaheim TodayAnaheim Ducks forward Cutter Gauthier left Monday's game against the Toronto Maple Leafs in the first period after sustaining an upper-body injury. Gauthier, the team's leader in goals and points, scored a power-play goal to give the Ducks a 2-0 lead before the incident. The game started off exceptionally physical, with Ducks captain Radko Gudas and Maple Leafs' Max Domi dropping the gloves off the opening faceoff.
Why it matters
Gauthier's injury is a significant blow to the Ducks, who are fighting for a playoff spot in the Western Conference. The physical nature of the game also raises concerns about player safety and the league's ability to properly address dangerous hits and altercations.
The details
Gauthier appeared to take a cross-check to the back from Maple Leafs defenseman Jake McCabe halfway through the opening frame. The Leafs were issued 13 penalty minutes in the first period, while the Ducks were whistled for nine penalty minutes.
- The incident occurred on the same shift on which Gauthier scored a power-play goal to give Anaheim a 2-0 lead.
- Gauthier left the game in the first period after sustaining the upper-body injury.
The players
Cutter Gauthier
Anaheim Ducks forward and the team's leader in goals and points this season.
Jake McCabe
Toronto Maple Leafs defenseman who was involved in the incident that led to Gauthier's injury.
Radko Gudas
Anaheim Ducks captain who dropped the gloves with Maple Leafs' Max Domi off the opening faceoff.
Max Domi
Toronto Maple Leafs player who was involved in the fight with Ducks captain Radko Gudas.
What’s next
The Ducks will provide an update on the severity of Gauthier's injury and his timeline for return. The NHL may also review the physical play and incidents from the game, potentially issuing further suspensions or fines.
The takeaway
This game highlighted the ongoing challenges the NHL faces in balancing the physical nature of the sport with player safety. The Ducks will need to find a way to overcome Gauthier's absence as they push for a playoff spot, while the league must continue to address dangerous hits and altercations to protect its players.
