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Connor McDavid shows his true colours by getting involved in the Matthews/Gudas controversy


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Jack Sutherland
March 15, 2026  (5:06 PM)
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Edmonton Oilers forward Connor McDavid (97) carries the puck around Toronto Maple Leafs forward Auston Matthews (34) during the first period at Rogers Place.
Photo credit: Perry Nelson-Imagn Images

Edmonton Oilers captain Connor McDavid is getting involved in the Auston Matthews/Radko Gudas controversy after the five game suspension handed out.

There was controversy last week when Anaheim Ducks captain Radko Gudas struck Toronto Maple Leafs captain Auston Matthews with a knee on knee hit, resulting in a Grade 3 MCL sprain for Matthews and ending his season.
The NHL Department of Player Safety, which has already suspended Gudas for 21 total games earlier in his career, announced a five game suspension.
But the Maple Leafs and many fans and analysts have already stated they don't feel it was appropriate punishment, and now Edmonton Oilers captain Connor McDavid is getting involved.
McDavid said that while he understands the DPS has a tough job, an audit would be well served for all involved so that everyone can get better results.
If every time there is a suspension everybody complains about it, why don't we take a look at the process. [And] figure out if there's a better way to make sure that both parties are happy because it seems like there's a lot of frustration. - Connor McDavid

McDavid will get plenty of support for his proposition, considering how many angry fans voiced their disapproval over the department's inconsistent rulings.

Auston Matthews' Agent Blasted The Department Of Player Safety

Judd Moldaver, the player agent for Matthews, blasted the NHL Department of Player Safety for what he felt was a weak punishment after an injury to one of the League's top stars and highest profile players in a major market.
In light of the obvious severity of the play, I am very disappointed and shocked that the league would allow for such a ruling. A phone hearing and five games is just laughable and preposterous. While the hearing process is pre-fixed in our CBA, that there was no further discipline is a reckless and ridiculous position for Player Safety. This decision results in a further loss of confidence in the disciplinary process for all players. Players and fans deserve better. The Player Safety Department should be suspended. - Judd Moldaver

George Parros, who is the head of the DPS, has gotten heavily criticized in recent years for his inconsistency in his rulings, perhaps most notably by the New York Rangers franchise in 2021.
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Connor McDavid shows his true colours by getting involved in the Matthews/Gudas controversy

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