Anaheim Defenseman Suspended 5 Games for Injuring Maple Leafs Star

Radko Gudas hit Auston Matthews with a knee-on-knee collision, sidelining the Toronto center.

Mar. 14, 2026 at 12:52am

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The NHL has suspended Anaheim Ducks defenseman Radko Gudas for 5 games after he delivered a knee-on-knee hit that injured Toronto Maple Leafs star center Auston Matthews. The incident occurred during a recent game between the two teams.

Why it matters

Matthews is one of the league's top players, and his injury is a significant blow to the Maple Leafs' playoff hopes. The suspension of Gudas sends a strong message from the league about cracking down on dangerous plays that risk injuring star players.

The details

In the second period of the March 12th game, Gudas extended his knee and made direct contact with Matthews' knee, causing the Leafs center to leave the game. Matthews is expected to miss several weeks with a sprained MCL. The NHL Department of Player Safety determined Gudas' actions were reckless and warranted a 5-game suspension without pay.

  • The incident occurred during the March 12th game between the Anaheim Ducks and Toronto Maple Leafs.
  • Auston Matthews is expected to miss several weeks with a sprained MCL.

The players

Radko Gudas

Anaheim Ducks defenseman who was suspended 5 games by the NHL for the knee-on-knee hit on Auston Matthews.

Auston Matthews

Star center for the Toronto Maple Leafs who was injured in the collision with Radko Gudas and is expected to miss several weeks.

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What they’re saying

“We must protect our star players from dangerous and reckless plays like this. The suspension sends a clear message that this type of action will not be tolerated.”

— Colin Campbell, NHL Senior Executive Vice President of Hockey Operations (NHL.com)

What’s next

The Maple Leafs will have to find a way to stay competitive in the playoff race without their top center Auston Matthews, who is expected to miss several weeks due to the knee injury.

The takeaway

This suspension highlights the NHL's continued efforts to crack down on dangerous hits that risk injuring star players. Teams and players will have to adjust their play to avoid similar suspensions going forward.