Camera catches Tie Domi's reaction to Max Domi's fight against Nemec

This incident occurred in the second period after a scuffle between Auston Matthews and Nemec. Max, having just retrieved the puck, quickly dropped his gloves to confront Nemec, delivering a series of uppercuts that clearly overpowered the younger player.

Max Domi's decision to fight resulted in a significant penalty burden of 17 minutes—comprising instigation, fighting, and misconduct penalties. This not only disrupted the Leafs' line strategy but also appeared to swing the game's momentum in favor of the Devils.

The reaction from Max's father, Tie Domi, a former Leafs player renowned for his fighting prowess during his career, was notably critical. Cameras captured Tie Domi in the audience displaying a look of disapproval and disappointment following the fight. Having accumulated 3,515 penalty minutes in 1,020 NHL games himself, Tie is well-versed in the strategic use of fighting in hockey.

He seemed particularly unimpressed with the timing and necessity of his son's decision to fight, considering the team's game situation and the fact that Matthews was the initial aggressor in the incident.

This is not the first time this season that Tie has appeared displeased following his son's fights, indicating a possible concern for his son's role in such physical aspects of the game. Despite Max's ability to compete in the NHL on skill alone, fighting seems to be an ingrained part of his approach, likely influenced by his heritage and his father's legacy. Tie's reaction suggests a mix of understanding and reluctance, recognizing the fighter's instinct in Max yet possibly wishing he could spare his son from that aspect of the sport.

Source: Maple Leafs Daily
Tie Domi reacts to Max jumping rookie defenseman Simon Nemec