"Gudas leveled Matthews with a knee-on-knee hit that left the 28-year-old agonizing in pain. Gudas got a five-minute major and a game misconduct for the hit. The ejection was justified, but it's not nearly enough punishment for Gudas' transgressions."
"The Anaheim captain has a history of being a dirty player. Just in the last couple of months alone, Gudas has knocked out two major superstars. During the Olympics, Gudas nailed Team Canada captain Sidney Crosby with a hit during Canada's quarterfinal matchup against Czechia."
"The reality facing the Maple Leafs is that Matthews could be out long-term. If that's the case, well, the Leafs might as well just shut him down for the remainder of the season. There isn't really much to play for at this point other than recouping their 2026 first-round pick."
During the Maple Leafs' 6-4 victory over the Ducks, Anaheim defenseman Radko Gudas struck Auston Matthews with a knee-on-knee hit in the second period, causing significant pain. Gudas received a five-minute major penalty and game misconduct ejection. Given Gudas' documented history of dangerous play—including a hit on Sidney Crosby during the Olympics that sidelined the Canadian captain—the NHL should investigate and potentially suspend him. Matthews faces potential long-term injury, and the Leafs should prioritize caution by avoiding rushing him back to play, allowing adequate recovery time.
Read at Editor In Leaf
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