Auston Matthews exits after knee-on-knee hit from Radko Gudas
The NHL world was left buzzing after another controversial hit by Radko Gudas, this time injuring Auston Matthews of the Toronto Maple Leafs. The knee-on-knee collision occurred during a game against the Anaheim Ducks, with Matthews forced to leave the game early and undergo evaluation for a potential injury.
Gudas, known for his physical play, has a history of questionable hits, including one that sidelined Sidney Crosby during the 2026 Olympics. The incident with Matthews has once again put the spotlight on Gudas and raised questions about his style of play.
The hit on Matthews drew criticism from Toronto coach Craig Berube, who called it a “dirty play” and suggested that the league would review the incident for possible disciplinary action. Gudas is set to have a hearing with the NHL’s Player Safety department, with a potential suspension looming.
Despite the controversy surrounding the hit, Gudas defended his actions, stating that the plan was to disrupt Matthews and prevent him from making an impact on the game. The collision left Matthews in pain on the ice, prompting concerns about the extent of his injury.
The game itself saw a dramatic turn of events, with the Maple Leafs rallying to secure a 6-4 victory over the Ducks. Matthews’ teammates faced criticism for not immediately responding to the hit, but ultimately managed to turn the game in their favor.
Gudas, a player known for his physicality, has a history of suspensions for dangerous plays on the ice. The incident with Matthews adds to his controversial reputation and raises questions about his future conduct in the league.
As the NHL continues to crack down on dangerous hits and player safety, the incident involving Gudas and Matthews serves as a reminder of the risks involved in the game. The fallout from the collision is likely to spark further debate about player safety and the role of physicality in hockey.
