The Toronto Maple Leafs are back on a winning streak. On Tuesday night, they beat the Colorado Avalanche 4–3 in overtime. Auston Matthews scored a goal in the third period and celebrated by taunting the Avalanche crowd, who responded the only way hockey fans know how.
After struggling through much of 2025, the Maple Leafs have started 2026 strong, suffering just one loss in their last six games. On Tuesday, they defeated the league-leading Avalanche in overtime, with William Nylander scoring the game-winning goal—his 16th of the season. Nylander also added an assist in the victory.
READ MORE: Craig Berube blasts entire Maple Leafs after new loss
”Good team effort”
After the game, a very satisfied Craig Berube spoke with reporters.
“Good team effort. Everybody was involved and contributed tonight. It’s always a battle here no matter what, but I thought our guys rose to the occasion and did a good job. That’s important, and it shows that we can compete with anybody in the league if we play the right way and do the right things,” Berube told NHL.com.
Auston Matthews taunting fans
What really got people talking, however, was Auston Matthews’ goal celebration. After scoring the 3–2 goal in the third period, Matthews skated past the Avalanche crowd, smiling at them. Fans responded by raising their middle fingers toward the Leafs captain—a moment that has Toronto fans in stitches.
“Once I saw him smirk, I was waiting for this clip,” one fan wrote on X.
“What a beast,” another added.
“This is the old Auston Matthews! Love to see it,” a third chimed in.
Next, the Maple Leafs will face the Utah Mammoth.
You can watch the celebration below.
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