Domi Fined, Leafs-Panthers Playoff Tensions Escalate

Game 4 of the Toronto Maple Leafs vs. Florida Panthers NHL playoff series ended in controversy after Toronto's Max Domi delivered a late, dangerous hit from behind on Panthers captain Aleksander Barkov, resulting in a $5,000 fine—the maximum allowed under the NHL's CBA. The incident sparked a melee and ignited widespread debate over the league's disciplinary consistency, as fans and analysts accused officials of selective officiating after similar hits by Panthers players went unpunished. Panthers forward Matthew Tkachuk confronted Leafs star William Nylander, warning of retribution, but Nylander dismissed the mind games with composure. Leafs head coach Craig Berube and players voiced frustration over the game's physicality and the officiating but remain focused on the series. With the series tied 2-2, both teams are bracing for a physical and emotional Game 5 in Toronto. The rivalry has escalated, promising a fiercely competitive battle for a spot in the Eastern Conference Final.