Agent for Auston Matthews blasts NHL Department of Player Safety after ruling on Radko Gudas

The controversy surrounding the injury to Auston Matthews, captain of the Toronto Maple Leafs, continues to grow and could remain a talking point well into the National Hockey League’s 2026–27 season.

The debate intensified on Friday after the NHL Department of Player Safety announced that Radko Gudas, captain of the Anaheim Ducks, would receive only a five-game suspension for the knee-on-knee collision that ultimately ended Matthews’ season.

The ruling immediately triggered criticism from fans and analysts across the hockey world. Now, Matthews’ own camp has publicly voiced its frustration with the league’s decision.

Agent Judd Moldaver strongly criticized the punishment, expressing disbelief that the league handed down what he described as such a light suspension considering the severity of the incident. Moldaver aimed his criticism not only at the disciplinary department but also at the league leadership under commissioner Gary Bettman.

He argued that the decision was difficult to accept given the seriousness of the play and questioned how the league could justify such a short suspension. According to Moldaver, the five-game penalty undermines trust in the NHL’s disciplinary system and leaves both players and supporters expecting stronger accountability.

The controversy could continue when the Toronto Maple Leafs face the Anaheim Ducks again later this month in Anaheim. By that time, Gudas will have completed his suspension, but Matthews will still be sidelined due to the injury he suffered in the incident.

With emotions still running high, many expect that matchup to carry extra intensity as the fallout from the controversial hit continues to ripple through the league. 🏒