Story perspectives

Ducks' Gudas Suspended; Matthews Out for Season After Injury

3/15/2026

Summary

Story summary

Radko Gudas, Anaheim Ducks defenseman, received a five-game suspension for a knee-on-knee hit on Auston Matthews, the Toronto Maple Leafs captain.
Matthews will miss the rest of the season due to a Grade 3 MCL tear and a quad contusion.
Judd Moldaver, Matthews' agent, called the decision "laughable and preposterous," citing Gudas' history of suspensions.
The incident sparked debate over NHL player-safety measures, noting Gudas received only a phone hearing.

History

Historical Context

The NHL has prioritized player safety since 2011, implementing stricter protocols after high-profile injuries, notably Sidney Crosby's severe concussion. In that season, 20 players faced suspensions for dangerous hits. Recent incidents, like Radko Gudas' five-game suspension for injuring Auston Matthews, underscore ongoing challenges in enforcing these measures, prompting continued debates on enhancing safety policies to protect players and uphold the game's integrity.

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Story summary

Radko Gudas, Anaheim Ducks defenseman, received a five-game suspension for a knee-on-knee hit on Auston Matthews, the Toronto Maple Leafs captain.
Matthews will miss the rest of the season due to a Grade 3 MCL tear and a quad contusion.
Judd Moldaver, Matthews' agent, called the decision "laughable and preposterous," citing Gudas' history of suspensions.
The incident sparked debate over NHL player-safety measures, noting Gudas received only a phone hearing.

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