The Toronto Maple Leafs found themselves in the headlines last Thursday for all the wrong reasons. Anaheim Ducks captain Radko Gudas delivered a knee-on-knee hit to Maple Leafs captain Auston Matthews, and the Maple Leafs’ response or lack thereof, was scrutinized by many. Matthews suffered a Grade 3 MCL tear and a quad contusion, ending his 2025-26 season. Gudas was later given a five-game suspension by the Department of Player Safety.
Former NHL head coach Dean Evason joined Leafs Morning Take with Nick Alberga and Jay Rosehill on Tuesday, to discuss what he thought of the Gudas suspension, what he’s seen from watching the Maple Leafs recently and his coaching future.
“I think I’m in the same boat as everybody else, I truly believe it was light. Obviously, these decisions get made, and there’s a lot that goes into them, but I’m not 100 percent sure why there wasn’t an in-person hearing to give the opportunity to do more,” Evason said. “I’m surprised that he didn’t get jumped after either. I know that [Brad Treliving] and [Craig Berube] would have wanted a response immediately, but it’s a bit of a surprise how light the five games were.”
Evason weighed in on what goes on in those disciplinary hearings as teams try to make sure their player gets as few games possible.
“The organization tries to put something together as for what went into the play, whether it was the speed or angle. You try to present that, then have the player come in and talk about it, making sure his talking points are correct. You don’t want to lie about anything, but you want to present your side, giving your player the best opportunity to not be suspended,” Evason said. “The organization does everything in their power to do the right things in order to get the least amount of games as you possibly can.”
As for the Maple Leafs’ season, which has been a major disappointment compared to what many have become accustomed to seeing out of the Toronto team, Evason touched on some points he thought were positives.
“I went back and watched the Minnesota game, and I actually liked what I saw. I haven’t watched a whole lot of games, but I liked how straightforward they played. Maybe they got out-shot and out-chanced, but they were playing a very straightforward game,” Evason said. “My guess is that’s what Chief is trying to implement and put into place. I think Toronto is in a bit of a transition period here, where they’re trying to play the right way. They lost some skill, but particularly in the Minnesota game, I liked how they played, and I liked their effort.”
After being dismissed from the Columbus Blue Jackets on January 12, Evason is looking forward to what lies ahead, knowing that he can step in and provide great value when it comes to leading a team again.
“I’m excited to have an opportunity to get back. I truly believe because the experience I’ve been through helps me to understand the league and dimensions of everything. I want to coach, there’s no question about it,” Evason said. “The experience, the intensity level and the opportunity to have a fresh voice come in and bring an excitement level. I believe I’m in a position where I’m a better coach.”
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