The Anaheim Ducks defenseman Radko Gudas is waiting to learn his discipline after a knee-on-knee hit injured Auston Matthews during Thursday’s game against the Toronto Maple Leafs.

The NHL Department of Player Safety confirmed on X that Gudas will have a hearing for kneeing Matthews.

“Anaheim’s Radko Gudas will have a hearing today for kneeing Toronto’s Auston Matthews.” NHLPS posted on X.

MORE: Craig Berube calls out Maple Leafs’ inaction after hit on Auston Matthews

NHL analyst Elliotte Friedman later clarified that the hearing will not be in person, meaning the maximum suspension could be five games.

The incident occurred late in the second period when Gudas collided with Matthews. The Leafs captain stayed down on the ice while holding his left leg before being helped to the locker room. Officials assessed Gudas a five-minute major and a game misconduct.

Toronto head coach Craig Berube strongly criticized the play after the game.

“Yeah, that was a dirty play,” Berube said. “The League’s gonna look at it, and see what the suspension will be or whatever happens.”

ALSO READ: Maple Leafs coach admits it’s ‘hard to win’ for Toronto after 8th loss

The injury overshadowed a much-needed victory for Toronto. The Maple Leafs defeated the Ducks 6-4, ending an eight-game losing streak. Matthews, William Nylander, Matias Maccelli, John Tavares, Matthew Knies, and Benoit-Olivier Groulx scored for the Leafs. Goaltender Joseph Woll made 36 saves, ending his own four-game losing skid.

Toronto Maple Leafs forward Auston Matthews (34) skates against the Anaheim Ducks during the first period at Scotiabank Arena. Mandatory Credit: John E. Sokolowski-Imagn Images

The hit raises fresh concern for Toronto’s star center. Matthews dealt with injuries last season that limited his production to 33 goals and 78 points in 67 games. This season, the production drop is still there with 27 goals and 53 points in 60 games. So, this injury is not at all good for Matthews’ season.

Toronto’s season has also been difficult for the Maple Leafs, as they hold a 28-27-11 record. They are sitting last in the Atlantic with 67 points, a really tight division, raising questions about Toronto’s playoff expectations.

If Matthews misses time again, the team’s playoff hopes could face another major setback.

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