The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/toronto-maple-leafs">Toronto Maple Leafs</a> secured a 6–4 victory over the Anaheim Ducks on Thursday night, but the result was overshadowed by a concerning injury to captain Auston Matthews. 



The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nhl/what-happened-to-auston-matthews-leafs-star-hit-by-radko-gudas-who-already-injured-sidney-crosby">star forward exited the game after a hit from Radko Gudas, who had already injured Sidney Crosby,</a> a play that quickly drew strong reactions from the Toronto bench.



The incident occurred during the second period when Gudas delivered the hit that forced <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/auston-matthews">Matthews</a> off the ice. Officials assessed the Anaheim blueliner a major penalty and a game misconduct, allowing the Leafs to capitalize on a lengthy power play.



“That’s a dirty play,” head coach Craig Berube said after the game, according to TSN. “The league is obviously going to look at it and see what the suspension will be, or whatever happens.”



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">Radko Gudas received a 5-minute major penalty and a game misconduct for this knee-on-knee hit on Auston Matthews. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FlyTogether?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FlyTogether</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LeafsForever?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LeafsForever</a> <a href="https://t.co/F1NotAn9fX">pic.twitter.com/F1NotAn9fX</a>— NHL News (@PuckReportNHL) <a href="https://twitter.com/PuckReportNHL/status/2032253632033210834?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 13, 2026</a></blockquote></div><script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div></figure>



<h2>Leafs respond after Matthews injury</h2>



Berube did not have an immediate update on Matthews’ condition, noting that the team will evaluate the captain further. “He’ll be looked at tomorrow,” the coach said.


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Despite the tense moment, the Leafs responded on the scoreboard. Trailing 3–2 in the second period, Toronto scored twice during the five-minute power play and eventually pulled away to snap an eight-game skid (0-6-2).


<div class="wp_fsn_poll" id="69b3e91ba1c616357c3f8efc" data-title="Should the NHL suspend Radko Gudas for the hit on Auston Matthews?" data-options="3"></div>

Maple Leafs’ Craig Berube slams ‘dirty play’ after Auston Matthews injured on Gudas hit

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Sullivan highlights NY Rangers’ top line with praise for Zibanejad, Perreault, and Lafreniere

Maple Leafs' Craig Berube slams ‘dirty play’ after Auston Matthews injured on Gudas hit - Bolavip US

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<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/auston-matthews">Auston Matthews</a> was slow to get up after a knee-on-knee hit from Anaheim Ducks defenseman Radko Gudas. The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/toronto-maple-leafs">Toronto Maple Leafs</a>‘ captain managed to get back on his feet only to be assisted by a trainer to skate off the ice as the fans at Scotiabank Arena watched speechless. The Leafs have now confirmed Matthews will not return to the game, being ruled out with a lower-body injury, via @LeafsPR on X.



Matthews tried to pull off a risky move in close to the Ducks’ net. As he dangled his way around Gudas, the hard-nosed blueliner extended his left knee which made contact with Matthews’ left kneecap. Matthews instantly fell to the ice, where he stayed for a while.



Gudas has been assessed a five-minute major penalty for kneeing and a game misconduct for his reckless action. This incident puts the Czech defenseman on the spotlight once again. 



Gudas had been involved in <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/sidney-crosby">Sidney Crosby</a>‘s knee injury during the Winter Olympics. This time, it was a knee-on-knee hit, which the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nhl">NHL</a> is very serious about, and thus it’s no wonder Gudas has been ejected from the game. Perhaps, supplementary discipline is in order.



<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Radko Gudas goes knee-on-knee with Auston Matthews. Gudas received a minute major pending review. Auston Matthews was down for a while but has gotten back to his feet. <a href="https://t.co/Rxf6xIe1GH">pic.twitter.com/Rxf6xIe1GH</a>— TSN (@TSN_Sports) <a href="https://twitter.com/TSN_Sports/status/2032252955663962378?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 13, 2026</a></blockquote></div> 



<h2>Matthews had snapped his goal drought</h2>



Just when things started to look up for Matthews amid a disheartening NHL season, everything headed downhill once more. The Leafs’ skipper had been held scoreless in each of Toronto’s last 12 games. Matthews hadn’t found the back of the net since Jan. 27, when the Buds fell 7–4 to their cross–Niagara Falls rivals, the Buffalo Sabres. 


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Against the Anaheim Ducks at home, Matthews finally lifted the curse. His goal came exactly five minutes before Gudas hit him with knee-on-knee contact. Now, concerns have grown about Matthews’ health. Because of how dangerous knee-on-knee hits are, nothing can truly be ruled out until the Maple Leafs provide an update on their captain’s scary injury.

What happened to Auston Matthews? Leafs star hit by Radko Gudas, who already injured Sidney Crosby

What happened to Auston Matthews? Leafs star hit by Radko Gudas, who already injured Sidney Crosby - Bolavip US

<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/auston-matthews">Auston Matthews</a> addressed the challenging season the Toronto Maple Leafs are experiencing, but the team captain remains confident the franchise can bounce back quickly. Toronto has struggled throughout the year, leading the organization to take a rare step at the trade deadline by moving players and collecting draft picks for the future.



For the first time in nearly a decade, the Maple Leafs acted as sellers at the deadline, a move <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nhl/maple-leafs-gm-brad-treliving-makes-big-admission-about-his-role-after-toronto-becomes-deadline-seller">general manager Brad Treliving acknowledged as part of his responsibility</a> in how the season unfolded.



Still, Matthews believes tough seasons do not always define a team’s future. “I remember Lightning missed the playoffs one year (16-17) &amp; then the next year they’re back at the top of the division, competing. Boston this year had a down year and now they’re right back in the mix. Sometimes it happens,” Matthews said, according to TSN’s Mark Masters.



<h2>Maple Leafs facing tough reality in the standings</h2>



Toronto currently sits near the bottom of the Atlantic Division and has lost seven straight games. With the team 11 points behind the second Wild Card spot in the Eastern Conference, its playoff hopes are extremely slim.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/03/10142019/auston-matthews-maple-leafs-1920x1080.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-595386"><figcaption>Brandon Hagel #38 of the Lightning looks to pass against Auston Matthews #34 of the Maple Leafs. Mike Carlson/Getty Images)</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Confidence remains in Toronto’s core</h2>


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Despite the disappointing results, the Maple Leafs believe their core players still provide a strong foundation for the future. Head coach Craig Berube expressed confidence that the team can turn things around. 


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“We do have a good core. I think we have a lot of good players here. I do believe in all of these guys… It has just been a down year,” Berube said. As the offseason approaches, Toronto’s challenge will be determining how to retool around that core without taking a step backward.

Auston Matthews addresses Maple Leafs’ hope of rebounding after difficult season

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Auston Matthews addresses Maple Leafs' hope of rebounding after difficult season - Bolavip US

<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/auston-matthews">Auston Matthews</a> was the leader of Team USA in winning the gold medal at the 2026 Winter Olympics, but the story with the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/toronto-maple-leafs">Toronto Maple Leafs</a> is completely different in the NHL.



The Leafs are one of the worst teams in the Eastern Conference with 65 points, and it seems they will not reach a playoff spot as a wild card. The dream of winning the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/stanley-cup">Stanley Cup</a> appears to have vanished once again.



After the NHL restart, the situation is critical with seven consecutive losses. What was supposed to be a push toward the postseason has turned into another major disappointment for the fans and, as a result, rumors are beginning to grow about Matthews’ future.



<h2>Auston Matthews could leave Leafs</h2>



Auston Matthews was not on the trading block for the Leafs, but according to a surprising report from Frank Seravalli, things could change next summer if the team enters rebuild mode.


 

 


“There was a lot of noise about Auston Matthews this week, I think there was a 0.0% chance of him getting traded, but I do think at some point in time in the offseason there’s going to be a conversation with him about what they’re thinking.”



In addition, after a decade without winning championships in Toronto, Matthews could also come to the conclusion that the best option is to change scenery and join a Stanley Cup contender. It already happened with <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/mitch-marner">Mitch Marner</a>.


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Auston Matthews could reportedly leave Leafs and follow Mitch Marner’s path

Auston Matthews delivers message after 2026 Winter Olympics win over Connor McDavid, Nathan MacKinnon, Mitch Marner and Canada without Sidney Crosby

Auston Matthews just had enough of Toronto Maple Leafs after loss to Ottawa Senators

Auston Matthews could reportedly leave Leafs and follow Mitch Marner's path - Bolavip US

The Toronto Maple Leafs just confirmed what <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/auston-matthews">Auston Matthews</a> and company feared. Sending Nicolas Roy to <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nathan-mackinnon">Nathan MacKinnon</a>‘s Colorado Avalanche can only mean one thing and that is not what anybody expected for the 2025-26 NHL season in Hogtown.



The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/toronto-maple-leafs">Maple Leafs</a>‘ struggles in the season have now led to another departure. Roy, who had arrived in Toronto in the Mitch Marner trade prior to the campaign, has now been sent to the Avalanche. Not only does the move indicate Matthews and the Buds were on the losing end of that blockbuster trade, but it proves the Leafs are waving the white flag early.



As confirmed by the <a href="https://www.nhl.com/mapleleafs/news/maple-leafs-complete-trade-with-colorado">Maple Leafs through an official statement</a>, Roy has been sent to <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/colorado-avalanche">Colorado</a>, where he will join MacKinnon and the best team in the standings. In return, Matthews’ Maple Leafs will receive a conditional first-round selection in the 2027 NHL Draft and a conditional fifth-round selection in the 2026 <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nhl">NHL</a> Draft.



<h2>Roy’s numbers with Matthews and Maple Leafs</h2>



Although Toronto traded Marner for Roy in a player-for-player exchange, everybody knew it wasn’t an even deal. The Leafs simply had no other choice. If they didn’t accept it, they would lose Marner to free agency with nothing to show for it. Thus, comparing Marner and Roy’s numbers would be like comparing apples and oranges.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/02/25131802/Avalanche-1920x1080.webp" alt="Nathan MacKinnon" class="wp-image-586594"><figcaption>Nathan MacKinnon #29 of the Colorado Avalanche looks on against the Seattle Kraken in 2025.</figcaption></figure>



So far in the 2025-26 season, Roy has recorded 20 points (5 goals and 15 assists) in 59 appearances. He is under contract at a $3 million cap hit through the 2026-27 campaign. As he joins the Avalanche (currently in first place in the league), Roy could re-connect with his best hockey and help another Western team hoist a Stanley Cup, like he helped the Vegas Golden Knights in 2023.


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<h2>Conditional picks in Toronto-Colorado trade</h2>



“In the event Colorado’s 2027 first-round selection is in the top-10 of the 2027 NHL Draft, Colorado will send its unprotected 2028 first-round pick to Toronto. Colorado currently holds three fifth-round selections in the 2026 NHL Draft; the lowest of those three picks will be transferred to Toronto as part of the transaction,” the Maple Leafs confirmed about the conditional picks involved in Nicolas Roy’s trade.



With MacKinnon’s team set to have Makar, Necas, Landeskog, and others under contract for the 2026-27 season, it is unlikely the Avalanche will finish with a top-10 pick in 2027. 



Therefore, all signs suggest Toronto will wind up with Colorado’s first-round selection in 2028. Matthews, whose current deal expires after the 2027-28 campaign, may not even be in “The Six” when that draft selection is made. After a <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nhl/former-maple-leafs-player-puts-toronto-on-high-alert-over-auston-matthews-future-with-trade-deadline-looming">former Maple Leaf put Toronto on high alert over Matthews’ future</a>, concerns about the captain’s departure only grew larger.

Maple Leafs confirm trade with Avalanche as Nicolas Roy leaves Auston Matthews to team up with Nathan MacKinnon

Maple Leafs confirm trade with Avalanche as Nicolas Roy leaves Auston Matthews to team up with Nathan MacKinnon - Bolavip US

Leafs confirm trade with Avs as Roy leaves Matthews to team up with MacKinnon

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/toronto-maple-leafs">Toronto Maple Leafs</a> have yet to win a game since the NHL resumed its action following the 2026 Winter Olympics. Thus, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/auston-matthews">Auston Matthews</a>—whose last win was in the gold medal game against Canada—and the rest of the team are essentially waving their playoff hopes goodbye.



However, the scenes could turn even more dramatic in Toronto. The Maple Leafs have long been criticized for coming up short in the postseason, yet missing the Stanley Cup Playoffs entirely is on a whole other level. Needless to say, the first season without Mitch Marner has been a nightmare for the Buds—and the worst may be yet to come.



According to former Maple Leafs center and analyst Jeff O’Neill, there is a potential scenario in which Auston Matthews requests a trade out of Toronto. It may be a long shot, but it feels closer with each new loss in the 2025-26 <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nhl">NHL</a> season.



<h2>Auston Matthews could request a trade</h2>



“It would not shock me if at the end of this season, Brady Tkachuk and Auston Matthews say that’s probably enough for me,” O’Neill said on TSN’s OverDrive. “I’m not kidding you. It would not shock me if both of them said ‘thanks, but no thanks’. Maybe it’s time to move on.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/03/03121155/auston-matthews-3-1920x1080.webp" alt="Auston Matthews stares at the puck" class="wp-image-590319"><figcaption>Auston Matthews at Scotiabank Arena in Toronto, Ontario, Canada</figcaption></figure>



If that’s the case, it presents a dilemma for the Maple Leafs. From an entirely business perspective, it might be better to shop Matthews before the trade deadline—when buyers are far likelier to overspend—than wait for the inevitable in the offseason. However, it’s all “ifs” at this point. Toronto is relatively secure since Matthews is under contract through the 2027-28 campaign.


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<h2>Context behind it</h2>



O’Neill referenced the tension that boiled over during the Winter Olympics. As captains of Canadian NHL franchises who are also household names on Team USA, Tkachuk and Matthews often found themselves between a rock and a hard place. 



At the moment, neither has admitted to a rift with their respective clubs; however, as both Ottawa and Toronto seem on track to miss the playoffs, the pressure could become too much to bear.



Serving as a captain is a massive accomplishment, but it carries immense responsibility. In the Great White North, the expectations are only magnified. Both Matthews and Tkachuk are expected to be the captains who finally lead their teams to <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nhl/canada-recent-stanley-cup-victory">Canada’s first Stanley Cup since 1993.</a> In Ontario, the drama and outside noise never truly fades—and if their teams aren’t even qualifying for the postseason, the “bad” may start to outweigh the “good” for both superstars.


<div class="wp_fsn_poll" id="69a71c92a1c616357c3f8db2" data-title="Who is likelier to request a trade from his organization?" data-options="3"></div>

Former Maple Leafs player puts Toronto on high alert over Auston Matthews’ future with trade deadline looming

Former Maple Leafs player puts Toronto on high alert over Auston Matthews’ future with trade deadline looming - Bolavip US

Former Maple Leafs player puts Toronto on high alert over Matthews’ future

<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/auston-matthews">Auston Matthews</a> and the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/toronto-maple-leafs">Toronto Maple Leafs</a> suffered another tough setback, falling 5-2 to the Ottawa Senators. With the pressure mounting late in the season, Toronto once again failed to put together a complete performance, leaving fans frustrated and the locker room searching for answers. The loss adds to a growing sense of urgency as the playoff race tightens in the Eastern Conference.



After the game, Matthews did not hold back when assessing the team’s effort. “I thought we started better. I mean, just kind of lost it there. Just really disconnected throughout all three zones. Just bad. Just fairly embarrassing to be honest with you. We need to have more pride in our play no matter where we’re at and no matter what the situation is.”



Toronto’s situation is becoming increasingly precarious as the Leafs have lost three consecutive games after the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/winter-olympics">2026 Winter Olympics</a> break and, overall, 11 of their last 15 matchups.



<h2>Can the Leafs make the NHL playoffs in 2026?</h2>



Following the defeat, the Leafs now sit at the bottom of the Atlantic Division with 63 points, a position that significantly complicates their hopes of qualifying for the NHL playoffs in the Eastern Conference. With every game becoming critical, the margin for error is rapidly disappearing.


 

 


Matthews addressed the mindset the group must adopt moving forward. “We just have to have more pride in our game. We didn’t have that tonight. It’s never fun to lose in this kind of fashion. It’s hard. It definitely wears on you, but we just have to be better. There’s no hanging our heads. There’s no feeling sorry for ourselves. Everybody’s got to look in the mirror and be better.”



If the Maple Leafs hope to turn their season around, it will require more than words. With time running out, the response over the next stretch of games will ultimately determine whether they can salvage their playoff aspirations or face an early offseason. It’s going to be a massive uphill battle to achieve a comeback in the standings.


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Sidney Crosby sends clear message to NHL about allowing players to participate in Winter Olympics after injury

Auston Matthews just had enough of Toronto Maple Leafs after loss to Ottawa Senators - Bolavip US

<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/auston-matthews">Auston Matthews</a> returned with the Toronto Maple Leafs after winning the gold medal at the 2026 Winter Olympics, leading an epic run for Team USA that ended with an overtime victory in the final over a Canadian team that featured stars such as Connor McDavid, Nathan MacKinnon, Mitch Marner, and Brad Marchand.



During an interview with Shawn McKenzie, Matthews acknowledged that it was one of the best moments of his career. “It’s been special. It’s been a lot of fun. It’s something you dream of and it feels amazing to be able to accomplish that and represent your country. It’s all been worth it.”



Canada was the favorite at the start of the tournament, but then lost <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/sidney-crosby">Sidney Crosby</a> to injury in the knockout stages. Although Jon Cooper’s team dominated the final, Team USA’s resilience and defensive discipline were too much to overcome after the historic goal by Jack Hughes in overtime.



<h2>Auston Matthews and his new challenge with Leafs</h2>



Auston Matthews hopes that all the experience gained with Team USA at the 2026 Winter Olympics can help him lead a deep run with the Leafs as they try to win the Stanley Cup this season.


 

 


“I think you learn a lot throughout those couple of weeks. I think you kind of get a taste of winning and how incredible it is to accomplish something with a group of guys and a team. For myself, coming back, hopefully that gives me a boost, gives me some confidence helping us close out this season in the right fashion pushing for a playoff spot.”



For that reason, despite several days of celebrations, Matthews did not hesitate to immediately rejoin Toronto. “I know where we’re at right now as far as the standings, the season and stuff like that. Continue to just be a professional and be here for the team. It’s important for me to be here for my teammates. We have a really important stretch of games during the rest of the season. That’s what it’s all about.”


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Jack Hughes sends clear message on Connor Hellebuyck after Team USA win vs Team Canada in 2026 Winter Olympics gold medal game

Sidney Crosby sends message to Connor McDavid, Mitch Marner, Nathan MacKinnon and Team Canada after tough decision in 2026 Winter Olympics

Auston Matthews delivers message after 2026 Winter Olympics win over Connor McDavid, Nathan MacKinnon, Mitch Marner and Canada without Sidney Crosby - Bolavip US

Auston Matthews' message after 2026 Winter Olympics

The return of <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/auston-matthews">Auston Matthews</a> to the lineup is one of the talking points as the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/toronto-maple-leafs">Toronto Maple Leafs</a> prepare to face the Tampa Bay Lightning, fresh off a dramatic break for the 2026 Winter Olympics.



After captaining <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/team-usa">Team USA</a> to a historic gold medal in Milan, his status for the matchup was uncertain. He rejoined the Leafs in <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/tampa-bay-lightning">Tampa</a> on Tuesday following the United States’ celebrations and a White House visit.



Head coach <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/craig-berube">Craig Berube</a> has spoken about the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nhl">NHL</a> player’s status and has finally put an end to the mystery, indicating whether he will be present on the ice for today’s game, which is set to begin at 7:30 PM ET.



<h2>Is Auston Matthews playing today for the Maple Leafs?</h2>



Auston Matthews is expected to be in the lineup for the Toronto Maple Leafs when they face the Tampa Bay Lightning on Wednesday night, following his return from leading Team USA to Olympic gold at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/02/25101056/Auston-Matthews-4-1920x1080.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-586396"><figcaption>Auston Matthews #34 of the Toronto Maple Leafs celebrates a third-period goal in 2026 (Source: Chris Tanouye/Getty Images)</figcaption></figure>



Coach Craig Berube said the captain has been rejoining the team and appears ready to suit up after the break. Matthews’ status had been in question following a hectic schedule after winning the medal, but according to league reports, he rejoined the Leafs in Tampa on Tuesday and is expected to play.



“He’s riding a pretty good high right now, you know? He’s feeling good. Again, we will evaluate that tomorrow and see where he is at and I will get a better feel when I talk to him here tonight“, Berube said.



The matchup marks Toronto’s first NHL game since the Olympic break and his potential return adds extra narrative weight. With the Leafs still chasing a playoff spot in a tight Atlantic Division race, having their captain back on the ice could be a major boost.



While there was initial uncertainty over whether he’d make the trip from Washington in time to play, statements from the coaching staff suggest confidence in his readiness. The final lineup confirmation will come closer to puck drop after warmups and pregame evaluation.

Is Auston Matthews playing today for Maple Leafs vs Lightning after 2026 Winter Olympics with Team USA?

Is Auston Matthews playing today for Maple Leafs vs Lightning after 2026 Winter Olympics with Team USA? - Bolavip US

Often considered the best American player in <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nhl">NHL</a> history, many fans wanted <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/patrick-kane">Patrick Kane</a> to join Team USA for the 2026 Winter Olympics. While adding “Showtime” to the lineup could’ve added to the intensity around Matthew Tkachuk, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/auston-matthews">Auston Matthews</a>, and company, it’s safe to say the Stars and Stripes did just fine without him. Thanks to Jack Hughes‘ heroics, Team USA is the best team in international hockey once again.



Following the win against Team Canada in the championship game, Hughes, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/matthew-tkachuk">Tkachuk</a>, Matthews, and Team USA can now hang a gold medal around their necks. Team USA has captured its first gold in men’s hockey since the 1980 Olympics in Lake Placid. However, the Americans have claimed other medals in the years in between. 



As a result, Kane only has a silver medal to his name. He was a member of <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/team-usa">Team USA</a> at the 2010 Winter Olympics in Vancouver, when Canada defeated the Americans in sudden-death overtime. Kane also represented his country at the 2014 Olympics in Sochi, Russia, but Team USA finished just outside the podium with a fourth-place result.



<h2>Team USA strikes gold once again</h2>



Though missing a true American hockey icon like Kane, Team USA stayed true to its identity and is now walking away from the 2026 <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/winter-olympics">Winter Olympics</a> with a gold medal around its neck. Jack Hughes said it best after scoring the game-winning, medal-clinching goal in sudden death overtime. 



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/02/22112526/jack-hughes-1-1-1920x1080.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-584844"><figcaption>Jack Hughes is Team USA’s Golden Goal author</figcaption></figure>



As <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nhl/jack-hughes-sends-bold-message-to-canada-after-golden-goal-for-team-usa-in-2026-winter-olympics">Hughes sent Canada and Team USA a bold message</a>, he reminded everybody what USA Hockey is about. That, along with Johnny Gaudreau’s children joining the team for the title picture and Lynyrd Skynyrd’s “Free Bird” blasting through the speakers best exemplify the American team’s culture.


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Jack Hughes, Matthew Tkachuk, Auston Matthews win gold in Olympics: Has Patrick Kane ever won an Olympic medal?

Jack Hughes, Matthew Tkachuk, Auston Matthews win gold in Olympics: Has Patrick Kane ever won an Olympic medal? - Bolavip US

Hughes, Tkachuk, Matthews win gold in Olympics: Has Kane ever won an Olympic medal?

Team USA is gearing up for the men’s hockey gold medal game at the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/winter-olympics">2026 Winter Olympics</a>, and <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/auston-matthews">Auston Matthews</a> sent a clear message about Team Canada ahead of the highly anticipated showdown. 



In an interview with NBC, Matthews described the upcoming game with excitement: “It’s going to be incredible. It’s an amazing opportunity obviously. It’s a great rivalry. Two great teams. It will be a really exciting match on Sunday.”



His comments underline both the competitive intensity and the significance of the historic rivalry, signaling that Team USA is fully prepared to face Canada head-on. It’s important to remember that the last gold medal for <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/team-usa">Team USA</a> in men’s hockey came in 1980 at Lake Placid.



<h2>2026 Winter Olympics: Team USA will face Team Canada for gold medal in men’s hockey</h2>



Beyond the words, Auston Matthews’ message is also a warning. Team Canada knows they will encounter a focused, skilled, and motivated opponent led by one of the NHL’s premier players. Right now, many experts see the Americans as favorites.


 

 


With both squads loaded with NHL talent and Olympic experience, the stage is set for one of the most thrilling matchups of the tournament. Canada had a 3-0 record in round robin, but suffered in knockout stages against Czechia and Finland.



Meanwhile, Team USA looked dominant in the semifinals beating Slovakia with a 6-2 score. The toughest test was in the quarterfinals with a 2-1 victory over Sweden.


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Auston Matthews sends clear message ahead of Team USA vs Team Canada in 2026 Winter Olympics gold medal game

Auston Matthews, Matthew Tkachuk and Team USA get warning from Team Canada before 2026 Winter Olympics final gold medal game

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Auston Matthews sends clear message ahead of Team USA vs Team Canada in 2026 Winter Olympics gold medal game - Bolavip US

Team Canada is setting the stage for an intense gold medal clash at the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/winter-olympics">2026 Winter Olympics</a> against <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/auston-matthews">Auston Matthews</a> and Team USA after a hard-fought 3-2 victory over Finland in the semifinals.



Nathan MacKinnon, who scored the game-winning goal against Finland, delivered a clear warning to Matthews and the Americans in an interview with NBC. “I mean, it’s a gold medal game in the Olympics. We’ll be ready.”



His statement underscores Canada’s confidence and readiness to face Team USA, knowing that Matthews, the star and captain of the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/toronto-maple-leafs">Toronto Maple Leafs</a>, will lead a formidable opponent. The world is waiting for this historic matchup.



<h2>Team USA gets warning from Team Canada</h2>



Canada’s veterans and young stars alike are aware of the challenge posed by the Americans. The Canadians have made it clear that they are ready to match Team USA’s speed, skill, and intensity in the final, leaving no doubt about their intentions. It’s important to remember that Jon Cooper’s team suffered a lot in the quarterfinals against Czechia and then in the semifinal with Finland.


 

 


Of course, the biggest story will be Sidney Crosby. The legend’s status adds an extra layer of uncertainty to the matchup. While his participation would bolster Canada, the team has shown it can respond under pressure without him. He’s dealing with a lower body injury and could have a chance to play on Sunday.



This uncertainty only intensifies the stakes for another chapter in this historic rivalry. Team USA has not won a gold medal in men’s hockey since the 1980 Olympics in Lake Placid.


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Connor McDavid, Mitch Marner and Team Canada get warning from Jon Cooper after Sidney Crosby’s injury vs Czechia in 2026 Winter Olympics hockey

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Auston Matthews, Matthew Tkachuk and Team USA get warning from Team Canada before 2026 Winter Olympics final gold medal game - Bolavip US

After the nail-biting 2-1 victory in overtime over Sweden, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/team-usa">Team USA</a> was taught an important lesson in the 2026 <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/winter-olympics">Winter Olympics</a>: anything can happen. If they blink even for a split second, the Americans can find themselves out of the tournament. 



On that note, goaltender Connor Hellebuyck delivered a bold message to captain <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/auston-matthews">Auston Matthews</a> and the rest of the team. Moreover, his statement served as a warning to Team Canada, whom Team USA might face in the gold medal — or bronze medal game.



“We didn’t come here for a Olympic medal. We came here for the big one,” Hellebuyck, who plays in the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nhl">NHL</a> for the Winnipeg Jets, told reporters, according to TSN’s Mark Masters.



<h2>Team USA vs Canada: one win away from reality</h2>



As soon as both Team USA and <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/canada">Canada</a> punched their ticket to the semifinals, fans started daydreaming about a rivalry showdown in the gold medal stage. However, both teams must take it one step at a time. First things first. <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nhl/who-is-team-usa-playing-next-in-2026-winter-olympics-semifinals-after-beating-sweden">Team USA is playing Slovakia next</a> in the semifinals, and the pressure is on the Stars and Stripes not to stumble over a stone they’ve tripped on in the past.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/02/19110303/connor-mcdavid-2-1920x1080.webp" alt="Connor McDavid" class="wp-image-582798"><figcaption>Connor McDavid #97 of Team Canada at 2026 Winter Olympics</figcaption></figure>



On the other hand, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nhl/who-is-team-canada-playing-next-at-2026-winter-olympics-after-beating-czechia">Canada will be playing Finland</a> with a ticket to the final on the line. The four teams still in contention are all ranked among the top four out of the group stage, so none can be underestimated. On paper, though, the North American sides are favorites to make it through, but anything can happen.


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<h2>Semifinals ahead</h2>



Because of scheduling, when Team USA takes on Slovakia, it will already know who awaits in the final. Thus, if Canada gets past Finland, the pressure will be squarely on the Americans to rise to the occasion and set up a winner-take-all showdown against their neighbors to the north. 



It should go without saying, but last year’s defeat to Canada in the 4 Nations Final in Boston still lingers. Moreover, even 16 years later, Crosby’s “Golden Goal” from Vancouver 2010 still stings. In Milano Cortina 2026, Team USA may have its best chance in a very long time to settle the score with its biggest rivals on the ice.

Team USA star makes something clear to Auston Matthews, teammates with threat to Team Canada

Team USA star makes something clear to Auston Matthews, teammates with threat to Team Canada - Bolavip US

<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/team-usa">Team USA</a> last captured the gold medal in men’s hockey at the Winter Olympics in 1980, during the iconic ‘Miracle on Ice’ at the Lake Placid Games. The team, made up mostly of amateur and collegiate players, shocked the world by defeating heavily favored opponents, including the dominant Soviet Union, before going on to claim the gold against Finland. This victory remains one of the most celebrated moments in US sports history.



Since 1980, Team USA has come close on several occasions but has not been able to replicate the magic. The team has earned silver and bronze medals in various Olympic tournaments, showcasing strong talent and competitiveness, yet the elusive gold has remained out of reach for over four decades.



Team USA are playing in the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/winter-olympics">2026 Winter Olympics</a> with a roster full of NHL stars and promising young talent, aiming to bring the gold back to the United States for the first time in 46 years.



<h2>Did Team USA win vs Sweden today in 2026 Winter Olympics hockey?</h2>



Yes. Team USA won against Sweden in today’s 2026 Winter Olympics men’s hockey quarterfinal, securing a 2–1 victory in overtime. With the win, the Americans advance to the semifinals, where they will face Slovakia for a chance to compete for a spot in the gold medal game.


 

 


<h2>What’s next for Team USA hockey team in 2026 Olympics?</h2>



Team USA now moves on to the semifinals of the 2026 Winter Olympics men’s hockey tournament to face Slovakia. The other semifinal matchup will feature <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/canada">Canada</a> against Finland, setting the stage for a potential USA–Canada showdown in the gold medal game if both North American teams win their respective matches. It’s important to remember that <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/sidney-crosby">Sidney Crosby</a> is injured.

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When was the last time Team USA won gold medal in Winter Olympics men's ice hockey? - Bolavip US

<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/matthew-tkachuk">Matthew Tkachuk</a>, Auston Matthews, and Team USA punched their ticket to the knockout round of the 2026 Winter Olympics, where a potential matchup with Team Canada in the gold-medal game awaits. While much talk has—and still does—surround Matthews’ captaincy, Tkachuk and the American squad are fully behind their leader.



“He’s our captain. We’re following his lead,” Tkachuk commented on <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/auston-matthews">Matthews</a> after Team USA’s 5-1 victory over Germany, via The New York Post.



After a quiet start to the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/winter-olympics">Winter Olympics</a>, the Toronto Maple Leafs’ captain caught fire during the final game of the round robin stage. Matthews registered two goals and an assist in the 5-1 win, which secured Team USA’s finish as Group C winner and the No. 2 seed going forward.



<h2>Team USA is going for gold</h2>



Going into the tense, win-or-go-home knockout round, such an outing from the skipper was just what the doctor ordered for Tkachuk and Team USA. With Matthews back in full stride, the Americans can truly be a force to be reckoned with. 



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/02/13221525/Team-USA-1-1920x1080.webp" alt="Auston Matthews" class="wp-image-579587"><figcaption>Auston Matthews of Team USA</figcaption></figure>



That on its own is enough to strike fear into the eyes of Team Canada and the rest of the competitors. However, before <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nhl/winter-olympics-hockey-bracket-set-when-can-team-usa-and-canada-play-each-other-at-milano-cortina-2026">Team USA and Canada can play each other</a> in the gold medal game, both must overcome tall hurdles in the quarterfinals and semifinals stage.


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<h2>Matthews leads by example</h2>



Though Matthews rarely gets involved in scrums during the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nhl">NHL</a> season, fans in Toronto were shocked to see how willing their captain was to get into the dirty areas of the rink. 



His commitment to the bit has helped ease the pressure on him, as fans want to see Captain America in full force during the Winter Olympics. However, head coach Mike Sullivan and the rest of the team have no doubts about their choice for captain.



“I think it’s inspiring. Players lead different ways. Auston is not the most vocal guy,” Team USA head coach Mike Sullivan admitted. “He’s a quiet guy by nature, but he leads through his example in the way he plays the game. We all know what he’s capable of. He’s one of the best players in the world. I think he’s an inspiration to all of them.”



<h2>Home stretch for Team USA and Canada</h2>



Matthews has come to life in Milan. Matthew and Brady Tkachuk are determined to make the most of the rare opportunity to join forces and represent their country. Team USA is ready and has played its best game just in time for the decisive stage of the Winter Olympics. However, the rest of the world is coming for them, and there is no such thing as a walk-in-the-park game when national pride is on the line. 



Team Canada and Team USA may boast the most household names, but hockey is a team sport, and anything can truly happen when a shot at Olympic immortality is up for grabs. Both North American powerhouses are playing a long way from home, so they had best not take anything for granted and stay aware of their surroundings on every inch of the ice.


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Matthew Tkachuk issues bold comment on Team USA captain Auston Matthews with warning for Team Canada in 2026 Winter Olympics

Matthew Tkachuk issues bold comment on Team USA captain Auston Matthews with warning for Team Canada in 2026 Winter Olympics - Bolavip US

Tkachuk issues bold comment on Team USA's Matthews with warning for Canada in Winter Olympics

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