Auston Matthews Injured After Knee-on-Knee Hit: Maple Leafs vs Ducks Trend Summary
Toronto Maple Leafs captain Auston Matthews was forced to exit the game against the Anaheim Ducks on Thursday night following a dangerous knee-on-knee collision with Radko Gudas. The incident occurred during the first period at Scotiabank Arena, leading to the immediate ejection of the Ducks defenseman. Toronto now faces significant uncertainty regarding the health of their superstar forward as they push toward the postseason.
TL;DR
- Auston Matthews suffered a knee injury after a hit by Anaheim’s Radko Gudas.
- Radko Gudas was assessed a five-minute major penalty and a game misconduct for the hit.
- Matthews scored his first goal against Anaheim in 12 games shortly before the injury.
- The Maple Leafs captain did not return to the game, and his status is pending further evaluation.
What Happened
The incident unfolded during the first period of the matchup between the Toronto Maple Leafs and the Anaheim Ducks. While Matthews was moving through the neutral zone, Anaheim defenseman Radko Gudas extended his leg, resulting in a direct knee-on-knee collision. Matthews collapsed to the ice in visible pain and struggled to make his way to the locker room.
Officials reviewed the play and determined that the contact was intentional and dangerous. Consequently, Gudas was assessed a five-minute major penalty for kneeing and received an automatic game misconduct, ending his night early. Matthews briefly attempted to test his leg but was ultimately ruled out for the remainder of the contest by the team's medical staff.
Key Developments
Before the injury occurred, Matthews had successfully ended a personal drought against the Ducks by scoring a goal. This marked his first goal in 12 games against the Anaheim franchise. The goal gave the Maple Leafs an early momentum boost before the atmosphere shifted due to the injury of their leading scorer.
Following the five-minute major, the Maple Leafs were tasked with reshuffling their top-six forward group. Head coach Craig Berube was forced to utilize different combinations on the power play and at even strength to compensate for the loss of their captain. The team confirmed via social media and official broadcasts that Matthews would not return due to a lower-body injury.
Why This Matters
The health of Auston Matthews is critical for the Toronto Maple Leafs' aspirations in the NHL standings. As the primary goal-scorer and leader of the team, any extended absence could impact Toronto's seeding for the upcoming Stanley Cup Playoffs. Furthermore, the league's Department of Player Safety may look into the hit, as knee-on-knee collisions are often subject to supplemental discipline including fines or suspensions.
What Happens Next
Auston Matthews is expected to undergo MRI testing and further medical imaging on Friday to determine the severity of the knee injury. The Maple Leafs are scheduled to provide a formal update on his recovery timeline before their next game. Additionally, the NHL may announce a hearing for Radko Gudas if the hit is deemed worthy of further punishment beyond the game ejection.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the official penalty for the hit on Auston Matthews?
Radko Gudas was given a five-minute major penalty for kneeing and a game misconduct, which resulted in his immediate ejection from the game on March 12, 2026.
Did Auston Matthews return to the game against the Ducks?
No, the Toronto Maple Leafs officially ruled Matthews out for the remainder of the game shortly after he left for the dressing room in the first period.
Will Radko Gudas be suspended for the knee-on-knee hit?
While he was ejected from the game, the NHL Department of Player Safety has not yet announced if Gudas will face a hearing or further suspension for the incident.
How many goals has Matthews scored against Anaheim recently?
Matthews scored one goal during the first period of this game, which was his first goal against the Anaheim Ducks in his last 12 meetings with them.
Who will replace Matthews in the Maple Leafs lineup if he is out?
The Maple Leafs will likely lean on stars like Mitch Marner and William Nylander to fill the offensive void, though a specific roster call-up has not yet been named.