William Nylander made a clumsy gesture during the TV broadcast - NHL is considering severe actions

Toronto Maple Leafs’ Swedish forward William Nylander found himself at the center of a controversy during the NHL night in North America.

Nylander was seen smiling and showing his middle finger to the television camera during a game against the Colorado Avalanche. The forward was not in the lineup but was watching the game from the stands with other injured Maple Leafs players.

The situation quickly spread on social media, where images and videos of the gesture began circulating widely. Nylander responded to the controversy soon after and apologized on his Instagram account.

– Only love for the Leafs fans. Apologies for today’s momentary frustration. It was not my intention to offend anyone. I look forward to getting back on the ice and not being in the stands, Nylander wrote on Instagram.

The Athletic reports that the NHL has not yet made a decision regarding possible disciplinary actions. The league is said to have reviewed the incident on Sunday night.

Nylander has been sidelined from games due to a groin injury. The forward, selected for the Swedish Olympic team, has recorded 48 points in 37 games this season.