Auston Matthews Injury: Ducks’ Radko Gudas Ejected After Knee-on-Knee Hit
Published: March 13, 2026
Matthews Leaves Game with Lower-Body Injury
Toronto Maple Leafs captain Auston Matthews was forced to leave Thursday night’s game against the Anaheim Ducks after a knee-on-knee hit delivered by Ducks defenseman Radko Gudas. The Maple Leafs announced Matthews would not return to the game due to a lower-body injury.
Radko Gudas goes knee-on-knee with Auston Matthews. Gudas received a minute major pending review. Auston Matthews was down for a while but has gotten back to his feet.
Gudas Receives Major Penalty and Game Misconduct
Gudas, the captain of the Ducks, was assessed a five-minute major penalty for kneeing and a game misconduct following a video review of the incident.
Power Play Goals Fuel Maple Leafs Comeback
Despite Matthews’ departure, the Maple Leafs rallied. John Tavares scored on the ensuing power play to tie the game 3-3 heading into the third period. William Nylander then scored early in the third period, also on the power play, to give Toronto the lead.
Incident Details
The hit occurred with just over four minutes remaining in the second period as Matthews received a pass near the Ducks’ net. He attempted to avoid a charging Gudas but collided with the veteran blueliner’s extended knee.
Gudas’ History of Penalties
This is not the first time Radko Gudas has faced scrutiny for his physical play. He was also involved in an incident at the 2026 Olympics that prematurely ended Team Canada captain Sidney Crosby’s tournament. Gudas has a history of suspensions from the NHL Department of Player Safety, including a 10-game suspension for a slash to the neck of Mathieu Perreault while playing for the Philadelphia Flyers in 2017.
- 2015: Three-game suspension for a headshot on Mika Zibanejad.
- 2016: Six-game suspension for a headshot on Austin Czarnik.
- 2019: Two-game suspension for high-sticking Nikita Kucherov.
Matthews’ Season Stats
Prior to the injury, Matthews had scored 27 goals this season, his 10th in the NHL, and had accumulated 53 points in 60 games.
Gudas’ Stats
Gudas, 35, has two goals and 11 assists in 52 games this season, his third with the Anaheim Ducks.
FAQ
What happened to Auston Matthews?
Auston Matthews sustained a lower-body injury after a knee-on-knee hit from Radko Gudas and did not return to the game.
What penalty did Radko Gudas receive?
Radko Gudas received a five-minute major penalty for kneeing and a game misconduct.
Has Radko Gudas been suspended before?
Yes, Radko Gudas has been suspended four times during his NHL career.