Toronto Maple Leafs star William Nylander found himself in the spotlight for the wrong reasons on Sunday. While watching the game from the press box, Nylander noticed a television camera focused on him. He responded by flashing his middle finger and smiling, a moment that quickly went viral and cost him $5,000.
The NHL handed down the maximum fine on Monday, Jan. 26, and fans across the league wasted no time reacting.
$5,000 Fine for Leafs’ William Nylander Sparks NHL-Wide Reaction
Nylander remains sidelined with a groin injury that has kept him out since Jan. 15 against the Vegas Golden Knights. During Sunday afternoon’s matchup between the Maple Leafs and Colorado Avalanche, a TSN camera caught Nylander sitting in the press box with injured players and healthy scratches. After noticing the broadcast, he made the gesture before laughing it off.
Nylander later addressed the incident, apologizing on Instagram. And then, speaking to reporters at practice on Monday. “First off, I just want to apologize for my actions,” Nylander said. “There’s been a lot of frustration, and I’m sorry about that.”
That frustration may stem from both his extended time on injured reserve and Toronto’s struggles this season. The Maple Leafs currently sit second-last in the Atlantic Division and have dropped four straight games.
In announcing the fine, the NHL cited a violation of its policy prohibiting “inappropriate and offensive remarks, and the use of obscene, profane or abusive language or gestures.”
“This serves as a reminder that the code of conduct governing players extends throughout the arena at NHL games and in public game situations,” NHL disciplinarian George Parros said in a statement.
The fine quickly sparked a reaction from fans and analysts across social media. NHL analyst Sam McKee of the Real Kyper & Bourne podcast wrote, “I thought Nylander flipping the bird was bush league and unprofessional, but this is absurd. This league thinks this is more dangerous than Brad Marchand braining Matheson, got it.”
The Devils reporter James Nichols responded by posting a GIF with the WWF catchphrase “SAWFT.”
Yahoo Sports MD Arun Srinivasan added, “A swift conclusion to a development that should’ve been a non-story in the first place.” Jeremy of The Hockey Writer questioned the league’s consistency. “It’s never been more clearly that the NHL’s department of player safety doesn’t treat all 32 teams the same.”
For now, the focus shifts back to Nylander’s recovery. He has been spotted skating, a positive sign that his return could come later this week. In the meantime, the Maple Leafs prepare to face the Buffalo Sabres on Tuesday.
