The Toronto Maple Leafs faced another setback during an already challenging season. An in-game collision involving their captain has now become a major talking point across the league.
The NHL was quick to take notice of the incident and make a disciplinary decision. But the player’s agent’s response has shifted the focus to the NHL’s disciplinary process.
Auston Matthews’ Agent Disputes NHL Player Safety Decision on Radko Gudas Suspension
The incident involving Auston Matthews and Radko Gudas took place on Thursday during a game between the Maple Leafs and the Anaheim Ducks. During the second period, Matthews attempted to move around contact near the slot when Gudas stepped into the play.
The contact resulted in a knee-to-knee collision that left Matthews unable to place weight on his left leg. Trainers helped the Maple Leafs captain off the ice and into the locker room while officials reviewed the play. Gudas received a five-minute major penalty for kneeing and a game misconduct.
MORE: Auston Matthews Injury: Maple Leafs Captain Out for Season With MCL Tear
The play was later reviewed by the NHL Department of Player Safety, which issued a five-game suspension to Gudas. The ruling soon drew criticism from Matthews’ agent, Judd Moldaver, after the discipline became public.
NHL insider Elliotte Friedman asked Moldaver about his reaction to the league’s decision. Moldaver responded strongly to the suspension and questioned how the situation was handled.
“In light of the obvious severity of the play, I am disappointed and shocked the league would allow such a ruling. A phone hearing and 5 games is laughable and preposterous,” Moldaver said.
He also pointed to the process used in determining the punishment. “While the process is set in our CBA, that this was the discipline is reckless and ridiculous,” Moldaver added.
Moldaver continued by saying the ruling could influence how players view the disciplinary structure going forward. “This decision results in a further loss of confidence in the disciplinary process for all players,” he said.
The agent finished his remarks with a direct statement aimed at the league office. “Players and fans deserve better. The Player Safety Department should be suspended,” Moldaver said.
READ MORE: Ex-Stanley Cup Champ Claims Auston Matthews’ Maple Leafs Captaincy Was a Mistake
Soon after the collision, the Maple Leafs confirmed that Matthews suffered a Grade 3 tear of the medial collateral ligament along with a quad contusion in his left leg. The injury will keep him out for the rest of the 2025-26 NHL season.
Toronto announced the diagnosis on Friday following an MRI examination. The team also stated that Matthews will be re-evaluated in two weeks while he begins recovery.
Matthews’ absence now leaves Toronto without its top center for the final 16 games of the schedule. With the team already outside the playoff picture, the injury adds another difficult development to an already challenging season.
