Nylander fined $5K for giving middle finger on broadcast
The NHL fined Toronto Maple Leafs forward William Nylander $5,000, the maximum allowed under the collective bargaining agreement, for making an obscene gesture during Sunday's loss to the Colorado Avalanche.
Nylander, currently sidelined with a groin injury, was shown on the broadcast from the press box pointing his middle finger at the camera.
"Only love for Leafs nation," Nylander posted on Instagram following the 4-1 loss. "Sorry about the moment of frustration today! Didn't mean to upset anyone. Looking forward to being back on the ice and not in the stands. Love Willy."
William Nylander has apologized for flipping the bird to the camera during today's @TSN_Sports broadcast of Leafs-Avs, calling it a "moment of frustration."
— Chris Johnston (@reporterchris) January 26, 2026
This is from Nylander's IG: pic.twitter.com/1A8DF2x3AV
"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 senior vice president of player safety George Parros said in a statement Monday.
Nylander has missed five games with the groin injury, during which the Maple Leafs have lost four straight.
The 29-year-old has 17 goals and a team-high 47 points in 37 games this season. Nylander is set to represent Sweden at the Olympics in February.