The Toronto Maple Leafs made headlines last Thursday, but not for reasons they’d hoped. In a tough turn of events, Anaheim Ducks captain Radko Gudas delivered a knee-on-knee hit to Leafs captain Auston Matthews.
The result? A Grade 3 MCL tear and a quad contusion for Matthews, sidelining him for the rest of the 2025-26 season.
The incident sparked discussions about the Maple Leafs’ response, or lack thereof, and saw Gudas receive a five-game suspension from the Department of Player Safety.
Former NHL head coach Dean Evason shared his thoughts on the situation during an appearance on Leafs Morning Take with Nick Alberga and Jay Rosehill. Evason, echoing the sentiments of many, felt the suspension was too lenient.
“I think I’m in the same boat as everybody else, I truly believe it was light,” he remarked. He expressed surprise at the absence of an in-person hearing, which could have led to a more severe penalty.
Evason also noted the lack of immediate retaliation from the Leafs, something he believes leaders like Brad Treliving and Craig Berube would have expected.
Evason provided insight into the disciplinary process, explaining how teams work to minimize suspensions for their players. “The organization tries to put something together as for what went into the play...
You try to present that, then have the player come in and talk about it,” he explained. The goal is to present the best possible case to reduce the number of games a player might miss.
Despite the challenges this season, Evason identified some positives for the Maple Leafs. Reflecting on a recent game against Minnesota, he appreciated their straightforward approach, even if they were out-shot and out-chanced.
“I think Toronto is in a bit of a transition period here, where they’re trying to play the right way,” he observed. The effort and style of play in that game were encouraging signs amid a disappointing season.
Having parted ways with the Columbus Blue Jackets in January, Evason is eager for his next coaching opportunity. “I’m excited to have an opportunity to get back,” he said, confident that his experience positions him as a better coach ready to bring fresh energy and insight to a team.
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