Ducks' Gudas Injures Another Top NHL Star

Radko Gudas faces potential suspension after knee-on-knee hit on Maple Leafs' Auston Matthews

Mar. 13, 2026 at 3:21am

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Anaheim Ducks defenseman Radko Gudas was ejected from Thursday's game against the Toronto Maple Leafs for a blatant knee-on-knee hit on star forward Auston Matthews, who did not return to the game. This incident comes just weeks after Gudas injured Pittsburgh Penguins captain Sidney Crosby during the 2026 Winter Olympics.

Why it matters

Gudas has a history of delivering dangerous hits that have injured top NHL players. This latest incident raises concerns about player safety and could lead to a lengthy suspension for Gudas given his disciplinary record.

The details

Gudas delivered a reckless knee-on-knee hit on Matthews in the third period, resulting in a five-minute major penalty and a game misconduct. Matthews left the game and did not return. Gudas has a history of suspensions and fines for physical play that has crossed the line, including a 10-game ban for a slash to the neck of a Winnipeg Jets player.

  • On March 13, 2026, Gudas hit Matthews during the Ducks-Maple Leafs game.
  • In February 2026, Gudas injured Sidney Crosby during the 2026 Winter Olympics.

The players

Radko Gudas

Anaheim Ducks defenseman known for his physical, aggressive style of play that has resulted in multiple suspensions throughout his NHL career.

Auston Matthews

Star forward for the Toronto Maple Leafs who was injured by Gudas' knee-on-knee hit and did not return to the game.

Sidney Crosby

Captain of the Pittsburgh Penguins who was injured by Gudas during the 2026 Winter Olympics and has yet to return to play for the Penguins.

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What they’re saying

“Gudas has always been one of the NHL's most physical players and often plays close to the line. When you are that physical, and consistently push the limits, you sometimes go beyond that. That has been the case with Gudas.”

— Adam Gretz, Freelance writer (Yardbarker)

What’s next

The NHL is expected to review the incident and determine if Gudas will face a suspension for the hit on Matthews.

The takeaway

This latest incident involving Radko Gudas highlights the ongoing concerns about player safety in the NHL and the need for the league to take stronger disciplinary action against players who deliver dangerous, reckless hits that injure top stars.