Toronto Maple Leafs captain Auston Matthews suffered a knee-to-knee hit from Anaheim Ducks defenseman Radko Gudas throughout Thursday’s recreation. The Mexican-American didn’t return for the rest of the sport.
The Maple Leafs announced on Friday that Matthews, 28, will miss the rest of the 2025-26 season.
Matthews suffered a grade-three MCL tear and quad contusion on March 12 throughout the second interval of the workforce’s recreation in opposition to the Anaheim Geese. Matthews might be re-evaluated in roughly two weeks.
After the sport, Leafs head coach Craig Berube didn’t stay silent, labeling Gudas’ hit a “soiled play.”
“The league’s going to clearly take a look at it and see what the suspension might be or no matter occurs,” Berube said, via ESPN.
Auston Matthews injured, leaves early as Maple Leafs snap skid
Regardless of not having their captain for the remainder of the sport, the Maple Leafs emerged victorious, 4-6, ending an eight-game shedding streak.
This victory helped restore optimistic emotions, and there have been some encouraging indicators of enchancment. Regardless of being down 3-1, the workforce got here again, which was a morale enhance.
Michael Pezzetta was one of many new additions, as he was chosen by Berube to be referred to as up from the AHL’s Marlies. He traded punches with Jeffrey Viel actually from the opening faceoff, which excited followers and despatched the message that he’s shifting as much as signify his workforce by way of thick and skinny.
Easton Cowan additionally had his first struggle. And it is not that it is crucial factor, in no way, but it surely’s clear that even the rookies are prepared and keen to offer their all in what stays of the common season.
The Maple Leafs will play in opposition to the Buffalo Sabres on Saturday, March 14, at 7 p.m. ET at KeyBank Heart.
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