The Toronto Maple Leafs have been eagerly anticipating their upcoming clash with the Anaheim Ducks on March 30th. This isn’t just any game on their four-game road trip; it's a chance to face Radko Gudas again after his hit ended Auston Matthews’ season. The hockey world was buzzing when no one challenged Gudas at the time, and now the Leafs are ready for some payback at the Honda Center-assuming Gudas is even playing.
Gudas, just back from suspension, logged a mere 8:33 of ice time before leaving with a lower-body injury during Thursday’s game in Calgary. Ducks reporter Zach Cavanagh reported that his status remains uncertain.
The 35-year-old defenseman has contributed 13 points this season, alongside delivering 160 hits, although he holds a -1 rating over 54 games. With his contract set to expire, Gudas is in the final stretch of a three-year, $12 million deal he signed in 2023.
Before facing Toronto, the Ducks will take on the Edmonton Oilers on Saturday. If Gudas misses that game, it’s possible he might not suit up against the Leafs either. Some speculate that he might be avoiding the anticipated confrontation, but that’s still up in the air.
Regardless of Gudas’ presence, expect the Maple Leafs to bring their A-game, aiming to show they won’t be easily pushed around anymore. However, if Gudas isn’t on the ice, it might take some of the edge off this highly anticipated rematch.