Radko Gudas ended Auston Matthews’ season with a controversial hit on March 12. Now, Matthews has shared his view on the play — and he did not mince words, suggesting reporters already know how he feels.
The Toronto Maple Leafs’ 2025–2026 campaign was a major disappointment. Not only did they miss the Stanley Cup Playoffs for the first time since the 2015–2016 season, but they also lost their captain in a game against the Anaheim Ducks.
READ MORE: Radko Gudas’ first words on Auston Matthews injury
Auston Matthews injury
On March 12, Gudas hit Matthews in the knee. Matthews suffered a Grade 3 MCL tear and a quad contusion in his left leg. He had been on crutches until a few days ago and is still wearing a brace on his left knee. The Maple Leafs went on to lose their final seven games of the season, finishing 15th in the Eastern Conference.
On Thursday, Matthews spoke to reporters about his injury, his future with the Maple Leafs — and the hit from Gudas.
READ MORE: Radko Gudas stuns fans in Max Domi fight
First words on Radko Gudas
“I think you probably know how I feel about the hit. Up until a couple of days ago, I just got off crutches. I didn’t think I was going to be standing here today. It’s going well so far. I think him reaching out — that’s kind of a personal conversation and whatnot. Like I said, I think you know how I feel about the hit,” Matthews told reporters.
Regarding his future with the Maple Leafs, Matthews added:
“I can’t predict the future. They have to hire new leadership in management and stuff like that, so I don’t really know. Like I said, I can’t predict the future.”
Matthews is under contract with Toronto through the 2027–2028 season.
You can watch the interview below.
