NHL Department of Player Safety head George Parros has publicly explained the reasoning behind the five-game suspension levied against Florida Panthers defenseman Radko Gudas. The suspension, announced on March 16, 2026, stems from an illegal check to the head of New York Rangers forward Mika Zibanejad during a game on March 15.
In a video statement released by the league, Parros detailed that Gudas delivered a high, forceful hit where the principal point of contact was Zibanejad's head. The department determined the hit was avoidable and that Gudas made no meaningful attempt to deliver a legal body check. Zibanejad was injured on the play and did not return to the game.
This is Gudas's fourth suspension in his NHL career, a factor that contributed to the length of the ban. Parros emphasized that the Department of Player Safety's decision was based on the dangerous nature of the hit and the need to deter similar actions. Gudas will forfeit $208,333.33 in salary, which goes to the Players' Emergency Assistance Fund.
The Panthers, in a tight playoff race, will be without a key physical defenseman for five crucial games. The team has acknowledged the league's decision. The incident has reignited discussions among fans and analysts about the consistency of the NHL's disciplinary process for head shots.
