Is Radko Gudas playing tonight against the Carolina Hurricanes? May 20, 2023 NHL Playoffs

As the Florida Panthers hold a 1-0 series lead against the Carolina Hurricanes in the Eastern Conference finals, defenseman Radko Gudas is expected to play a crucial role in Game 2.

Known for his unwavering commitment and defensive prowess, Gudas has established himself as a reliable force on the blue line. In the previous game against the Hurricanes, he displayed his defensive capabilities with a plus/minus rating of 0, showcasing his ability to neutralize opposing offensive threats and contribute to the team's defensive stability.

Gudas' physicality and solid presence on the ice makes him an invaluable asset to the Panthers' defensive strategy. Furthermore, Gudas' experience in high-pressure playoff games adds another layer of value to the Panthers' lineup.

While Gudas may not have contributed offensively in the last game, his impact extends far beyond the scoresheet. His primary focus remains on shutting down the opposing team's top forwards, maintaining a strong defensive presence and providing stability on the back end.

In this critical matchup, Gudas' contributions will play a vital role in determining the outcome. With his defensive prowess, physicality and playoff experience, he is poised to make a significant impact and contribute to the Panthers' pursuit of victory in Game 2 of the Eastern Conference finals.

A look at Radko Gudas' NHL career

Radko Gudas made his NHL debut on March 12, 2013, against the Florida Panthers, immediately showcasing his trademark style. Despite playing only 22 games that season, he ranked seventh among NHL rookies with 87 hits, emphasizing his physical presence on the ice. In his first full NHL season with the Lightning in 2013-14, Gudas continued to make an impact.

Radko Gudas recorded 22 points, including three goals, and led the team in hits with a staggering 273, which also placed him tied for third in the entire league. Additionally, Gudas ranked second on the team in blocked shots, proving his commitment to defensive responsibilities. His aggressive play style resulted in him finishing sixth in the NHL in penalty minutes that season with 152.

The following season, Gudas began with the Lightning but was eventually traded to the Philadelphia Flyers on March 2, 2015, along with two draft picks, in exchange for Braydon Coburn. Gudas quickly became a mainstay on the Flyers' blue line and showcased his physical prowess once again during the 2015-16 season.

It was in the 2016-17 season that Radko Gudas experienced his best offensive output in the NHL. He achieved career highs in both goals, with six, and total points, with 23, while still maintaining his physical presence on the ice.

After spending two more seasons with the Flyers, Gudas was traded to the Washington Capitals on June 14, 2019. In his first season with the Capitals, Gudas embraced a third-pairing role and excelled defensively, achieving a career-best plus-15 rating in the 2019-20 season.