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Auston Matthews' shocking move against Ridly Greig sparks playoff debate

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At the 2025 NHL Playoffs, a shocking incident took fans by surprise, Auston Matthews snapped Ridly Greig 's stick in Game 1 between the Ottawa Senators and the Toronto Maple Leafs . The incident soon went viral, and fans started discussing it across hockey fan bases. Sports commentator Elliotte Friedman later reacted to the incident, and it put more fuel to the already hot playoff environment.


Auston Matthews’ shocking move against Ridly Greig fuels heated playoff conversation


Tensions were already on edge during Game 1 of the 2025 NHL Playoff series when stirrer Ridly Greig encroached upon the Maple Leafs' bench too closely. For some reason, Ridly Greig's stick landed too close to Auston Matthews, who grasped it and split it in half before disposing of it.



This move quickly generated responses from fans. Elliotte Friedman, one of the NHL's most recognized insiders, didn't appear surprised. Discussing on his hit podcast 32 Thoughts, Elliotte Friedman described how Ridly Greig is the type of player who rubs people the wrong way, and this play was just a manifestation of that.




Elliott Friedman commented, "Ridly Greig gets the opposition furious. You love him or you hate him based on which team you're a fan of." He likened the incident to earlier occurrences where players lost their composure due to Ridly Greig's on-ice conduct.


Ridly Greig’s controversial style fuels tension in the playoffs

Ridly Greig's playing style has made him a focal point of the playoffs, not only due to his ability but also because he can infuriate. It is not the first time that he has found himself in this kind of controversy. He had faced a major hit from Morgan Rielly early in the season, which had even resulted in Rielly getting suspended.


Elliott Friedman commented that although Austin Matthews breaking the stick did not result in a penalty or suspension, it does reflect how emotionally tense these games have become particularly when a player like Ridly Greig is involved. "It's part of playoff culture," Friedman continued. "These little things create tension."


Fans are divided. Some think Austin Matthews needs to be fined or warned, at least, while others simply view it as another intense playoff moment.


Also Read: Auston Matthews' Close Call With Injury Sparks Outrage As Cutter Gauthier's Skate Comes Dangerously Close



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