The fallout from the collision between Anaheim Ducks captain Radko Gudas and Toronto Maple Leafs star Auston Matthews continues to resonate across the NHL.
What was already a difficult season for Toronto took a devastating turn, and now Gudas has publicly expressed regret over the play that sidelined one of the league’s top players.
Radko Gudas Expresses Regret Over Auston Matthews Injury
The incident occurred on March 12 during a late second-period sequence. Matthews was attempting to sidestep Gudas in the slot after a turnover when the Ducks defenseman, caught out of position, made a desperate reach that resulted in a knee-on-knee collision.
Matthews immediately crumpled to the ice in visible pain and was helped to the locker room by Brandon Carlo and a trainer, unable to put weight on his left leg. The play led to a five-minute major for kneeing and a game misconduct for Gudas.
The NHL’s Department of Player Safety later suspended Gudas for five games, requiring him to forfeit approximately $104,166 in salary. Meanwhile, Toronto received far worse news: Matthews was diagnosed with a Grade 3 MCL tear, effectively ending his season.
Speaking after Tuesday’s morning skate, following the completion of his suspension, Gudas made it clear he never intended to cause harm. “I really hate the way it ended up, the point of contact… I never want to injure anybody out there. It’s a hard-fought game… I feel terrible about the outcome. I just committed to the play, and unfortunately that was the point of contact,” Gudas said.
Gudas revealed he contacted Matthews shortly after the game to apologize. He said he sent a text message, and a few days later, the Leafs captain got back to him. “Just wanted to make sure that [he knew] it was not my intention to hurt anybody.”
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The five-game suspension sparked debate among fans and analysts, with many pointing out the contrast between the length of the punishment and the severity of Matthews’ injury. While the Maple Leafs lost their captain for the remainder of the season, Gudas missed just five games.
Still, the Ducks defenseman said he accepted the league’s decision. “I respect the league’s decision… I’ve tried to stay on the good side… to stay away (from suspensions), to stay on the right side, to play hard, but be on the good side of it,” he said.
For now, the focus shifts to Matthews’ recovery timeline and what his absence means for Toronto moving forward.
