Monday’s game was expected to be a physical showdown, and the Toronto Maple Leafs wasted no time.Maple Leafs forward Max Domi squared off against Anaheim Ducks captain Radko Gudas three seconds into the game. Gudas suited up despite nursing an apparent lower-body injury, in order to properly atone for his previous conduct.

Here is the fight:

MAX DOMI DROPS THE GLOVES WITH RADKO GUDAS RIGHT OFF THE OPENING DRAW 🫨👊

“They don’t want the game to get out of hand, and I don’t blame them,” Maple Leafs head coach Craig Berube said pre-game, when asked about what message he’s received from the NHL about Monday’s contest. “I don’t think it is good for anybody. You don’t want anything stupid happening with suspensions and things like that. That doesn’t solve anything. Just go out, play the game with a lot of emotion and energy, be physical, and be hard on their skilled players.”

Berube was irate with his team, following a lack of response to Gudas’ hit on Matthews during the March 12 game. Morgan Rielly took responsibility for the lack of response following the March 12 contest, but the message was clear from the outset entering Monday’s game.

Of course, the events of Monday’s game may be secondary to the larger organizational news. An hour before the game, the Maple Leafs announced that they had parted ways with general manager Brad Treliving. Treliving was hired in May 2023, but ultimately did not construct a roster that could sustainably contend for the Stanley Cup, following a second-round exit against the Florida Panthers last spring. As the Maple Leafs will miss the playoffs for the first time in a decade, Tuesday could be the first step towards major institutional change.PRESENTED BY TABLE FARE + SOCIALTABLE Fare + Social is a vibrant food hall in the heart of Toronto’s financial district, offering a unique dining and social experience just steps from transit and the arena—perfect for pregame meals before tip-off. Open weekdays from 11am to 10pm, TABLE serves up morning treats, creative eats, and lively after-work events. With a private terrace overlooking Toronto’s elevated park, guests enjoy stunning views alongside year-round programming that includes food tastings, cooking classes, live music, and pop-up events designed to spark connection and creativity.
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