A recent hit on Toronto Maple Leafs captain Auston Matthews has led to a wider discussion across the NHL. The incident has raised questions about the team’s response when star players take dangerous hits.
During a recent broadcast, NHL on TNT analyst Anson Carter pointed to a clear contrast between Toronto and Edmonton Oilers. Carter praised the Oilers’ reaction after Leon Draisaitl was hit in Sunday’s 3-1 win against the Nashville Predators.
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Draisaitl left the game after Predators forward Ozzy Wiesblatt delivered a hard hit in the first period. Edmonton players quickly stepped in after the hit, showing strong support for their teammate. Carter said that the response reflected the mindset of a team with championship experience.
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“I wanna talk about the response from the Oilers,” Carter said. “Great response. You saw what happened in Toronto. Everyone’s been talking about that, the lack of response. Draisaitl gets hit by Wiesblatt, and everyone’s in there. Pack mentality. That’s a sign of a team that’s went to the last two Stanley Cup finals.”
Edmonton Oilers center Leon Draisaitl (29) and other Oilers’ players during the first period at Rogers Place. Mandatory Credit: Walter Tychnowicz-Imagn Images
The reaction looked different in Toronto earlier this month. Matthews took a hard hit from Anaheim Ducks defenseman Radko Gudas that drew heavy attention from fans and media. In the game, the Maple Leafs did not respond immediately on the ice, which led to criticism about the team’s toughness.
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Coach Craig Berube questioned the lack of response from his players, saying, “We should’ve had four guys in there doing something about it, but it didn’t happen.” The situation created an uncomfortable conversation in the locker room and around the league.
Bissonnette on the impact of Auston Matthews’ hit
Former NHL player Paul Bissonnette believes that moment changed how teams now react across the league.
“I think a situation like Toronto’s and seeing the media coverage that it’s getting, it’s probably putting everybody on high alert where anybody on your team’s getting hit, and they go down now, you gotta answer the bell,” Bissonnette said. “Especially your top player, and especially if you’re heading into playoffs. You gotta set the tone now.”
With the playoffs approaching, many teams now view those moments as chances to set a stronger tone on the ice.
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