"We lose our captain for the year. It doesn't seem like enough for me,' Leafs coach Craig Berube said regarding the five-game suspension given to Radko Gudas for the hit that injured Matthews."
"While the process is set in our CBA, that this was the discipline is reckless and ridiculous. This decision results in a further loss of confidence in the disciplinary process for all players. Players and fans deserve better. The Player Safety Department should be suspended.' - Matthews' agent Judd Moldaver"
"It had already been a challenging season for the Maple Leafs, who are on track to miss the playoffs for the first time since Matthews debuted in the 2016-17 season. Toronto was forced to be sellers at this year's trade deadline as they look to reset."
Maple Leafs captain Auston Matthews had successful MCL surgery in New York with an expected 12-week recovery period, positioning him to be fully healthy for training camp. The 28-year-old suffered the injury from a knee-to-knee hit by Anaheim Ducks captain Radko Gudas, who received a five-game suspension. The Maple Leafs organization and Matthews' agent criticized the NHL's Department of Player Safety, arguing the suspension was insufficient punishment. Commissioner Gary Bettman defended the disciplinary process at GM meetings. The injury compounds a difficult season for Toronto, which is on track to miss the playoffs for the first time since Matthews' 2016-17 debut. Matthews finished the season with 27 goals and 53 points in 60 games.
Read at ESPN.com
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