In a thrilling comeback at Scotiabank Arena on Thursday, March 12, 2026, the Toronto Maple Leafs ended their eight-game losing skid by defeating the Anaheim Ducks 6-4. The victory was powered by strong special teams play, including four straight goals, with Matthew Knies contributing a goal and three assists. William Nylander scored the go-ahead tally on the power play just 36 seconds into the third period.
Auston Matthews (34) collides knee-on-knee with Anaheim Ducks’ Radko Gudas (7) during the second period at Scotiabank Arena on March 12, 2026. (Image: nytimes.com)
However, the celebration was overshadowed by a serious injury to Leafs captain Auston Matthews. Late in the second period, while attempting to maneuver around Ducks defenseman Radko Gudas, Matthews suffered a direct knee-on-knee collision. He immediately went down, clutching his left leg in visible pain, and required assistance from trainers and teammate Brandon Carlo to leave the ice. Matthews did not return to the game and was ruled out for the remainder due to a lower-body injury. He will undergo further evaluation on Friday.
Gudas was assessed a five-minute major penalty for kneeing and a game misconduct, resulting in his ejection from the contest. The incident has sparked debate given Gudas’ history of physical play, including a recent high-profile collision at the 2026 Olympics. Despite the loss of their star captain—who had just ended a 12-game goal drought earlier in the game—the Leafs rallied to secure the much-needed two points.
Matthews in agony on the ice, attended by medical staff after favoring his left leg
The NHL Department of Player Safety is expected to review the hit for potential supplemental discipline. Updates on Matthews’ status will be crucial for Toronto as they push forward in the season
