Matthews’ agent calls Gudas’ suspension length ‘laughable and preposterous’

There is a little bit of outrage regarding one of the NHL Department of Player Safety’s recent decisions.

When speaking with Chris Johnston of The Athletic, Judd Moldaver, agent of Toronto Maple Leafs captain Auston Matthews, didn’t think the penalty levied against Anaheim Ducks defenseman Radko Gudas was enough.

The incident question came up with a few minutes left in the second period. Matthews had the puck in the slot in the offensive zone and looked to juke past an oncoming Gudas. When the Toronto center lunged to get out of the way, Gudas’s leg was out, taking out Matthews’ left leg.

Matthews was in obvious distress after the play, limped off the ice and didn’t return to the game. Gudas was assessed a five-minute major for kneeing and a game misconduct. He was suspended for five games, the maximum for a non-in-person hearing with the DoPS. It marked the fifth time Gudas has been suspended in his NHL career, having been forced to sit out a total of 26 games.

“In light of the obvious severity of the play, I am very disappointed and shocked that the league would allow for such a ruling,” Moldaver said. “A phone hearing and 5 games is just laughable and preposterous.”

Moldaver, executive vice president with THE TEAM, which has high-profile clients featuring Connor McDavid and Zach Werenski, held his ground that Gudas’ banishment should’ve been more severe.

“While the hearing process is pre-fixed in our CBA, that there was no further discipline is a reckless and ridiculous position for player safety. This decision results in a further loss of confidence in the disciplinary process for all players. Players and fans deserve better. The Player Safety department should be suspended.”

It was revealed on Friday that Matthews suffered a Grade 3 MCL tear, effectively ending his 2025-26 season. Gudas will be eligible to return to the Ducks lineup on March 24.