Gudas' Hit on Matthews Sparks Safety Concerns

0:00From the Daily News Now Network, this is NHL News Today. Subscribe to keep up with every headline, every game. Toronto Maple Leafs Captain Austin Matthews took a tough knee-on knee hit from Anaheim Ducks' defenseman, Radco Goudus during their game on March 13th, 2026. Matthews was shooting on goal when Goudus extended his knee, forcing him to leave the game early. Goudus drew a 5-minute major penalty and a game misconduct for the play. This incident echoes a similar one just weeks earlier in the Milan Olympics quarter-finals. There, Goudus checked Pittsburgh Penguins captain Cindy Crosby Hard, sparking talk of a knee injury that has kept Crosby out of action ever since. Officials gave Goudus no penalty for that hit. Hockey fans are fired up, pointing to Goudus' pattern of rough plague and star players. The hit on Matthews has leaf supporters worried, especially with their team on track to miss the playoffs this season. It could sideline Matthews for the rest of the year and into next.

1:00Meanwhile, Goudus plays alongside Ducks' teammate, Jacob Truba, who also has a reputation for dangerous hits, like Elbows to the head from his Rangers. Days. Both have faced scrutiny from the NHL Department of Player Safety before. League officials now face pressure to review the Matthews hit closely and issue a suspension. Clean play is key and hockey, and fans want accountability to keep the game safe. Thanks to our sponsor for supporting today's coverage. Your bedtime ritual just got better. Built in sound, built in comfort, S-O-L-I-SoliPillow.com