William Nylander Faces Consequences for Gesture

William Nylander expressed regret over his actions, but the NHL is taking steps to ensure his apology is genuine.

The league imposed a fine of $5,000 on Nylander for “making an inappropriate gesture.” This came after he was caught on camera giving the middle finger during a game against the Avalanche on Sunday.

During the broadcast, the camera was aimed at the press box, where Nylander and other sidelined Maple Leafs players were seated. Nylander laughed as he made the gesture, seemingly directed at the press box.

George Palos, the NHL’s senior vice president of player safety, stated, “Mr. Nylander made an inappropriate gesture toward a television camera operator while the cameras were focused on him and his teammates in the press box. The gesture was broadcast live during the game. This is a reminder that the code of conduct governing players extends throughout the arena of NHL games and into public game situations.”

Nylander took responsibility for his actions, apologizing first on social media Sunday and reiterating it on Monday after a practice session. He clarified that the gesture resulted from frustration and wasn’t meant to target anyone in particular.

“I just wanted to apologize for my actions yesterday. It was out of frustration and I’m sorry,” he said.

Currently, Nylander is dealing with a groin injury and won’t be playing in Game 6 when the Sabers take on the Maple Leafs. The team has struggled during his absence, having lost four of the five games he missed due to injury.

Leafs coach Craig Berube commented on the incident, suggesting a path forward, “He made a mistake. He admitted it. Things happen. People make mistakes. Players make mistakes. Coaches make mistakes. It happens. He knew it was wrong and he accepted it.”