Auston Matthews, the captain of the NHL team Toronto Maple Leafs, will miss the remainder of the season following a severe knee injury he sustained during a game against the Anaheim Ducks. The injury occurred when he was caught in a brutal hit delivered by Czech defenseman Radko Gudas, causing Matthews to struggle to get back on his feet after the collision. The Maple Leafs announced this unfortunate news early Saturday morning Finland time, stating that Matthews will undergo further examination in two weeks.

The hit by Gudas was not only detrimental to Matthews’ health but also led to significant disciplinary action against him. He received a 5 + 20-minute penalty for his actions during the game, and subsequently, the NHL's Department of Player Safety suspended him for five games. Maple Leafs head coach Craig Berube condemned the hit as