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yesterday

Maple Leafs Say Auston Matthews Undergoes MCL Repair With 12-Week Recovery

The update intensifies scrutiny of NHL discipline, raising offseason questions in Toronto.

Mar 10, 2026; Montreal, Quebec, CAN; Toronto Maple Leafs forward Auston Matthews (34) shoots the puck against the Montreal Canadiens during the first period at the Bell Centre. Mandatory Credit: Eric Bolte-Imagn Images
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Overview

  • The team said Thursday the surgery was performed in New York, ending Matthews’ 2025-26 season and likely ruling out any spring international play.
  • Recovery is projected at about 12 weeks, placing the star center on track to be ready for training camp.
  • Matthews was injured on a knee-on-knee hit by Ducks captain Radko Gudas on March 12, for which the NHL issued a five-game suspension.
  • Leafs coach Craig Berube and agent Judd Moldaver blasted the punishment as too light, while commissioner Gary Bettman and Player Safety chief George Parros defended the process.
  • Toronto has fallen to 29-28-12 and far from a playoff spot, and insiders report the injury and poor season have accelerated looming offseason conversations about Matthews’ future and the club’s direction.