Wednesday evening, Washington Capitals forward Brendan Leipsic apologized after misogynistic and offensive comments in private messages were leaked on social media.

Although it has not been officially confirmed, screenshots of Leipsic’s private Instagram messages showed misogynistic and vulgar language regarding women and various NHL players, which include his own linemates, Nic Dowd and Garnet Hathaway. It appeared Florida Panthers’ forward Jack Rodewald was also a part of the chat. As of this afternoon, Leipsic’s Instagram account is no longer active.

HERE IS A THREAD OF ALL THE DMS. the account got taken down but I screenshotted all of them
I’m sorry if some of these are double screenshots pic.twitter.com/uCoo5fGMrb

— lily (@jackeichs) May 6, 2020

The team is aware of his comments and is looking into it, per a Capitals spokesperson. “We are aware of the unacceptable and offensive comments made by Brendan Leipsic in a private conversation on social media. We will handle this matter internally.”

The 25-year-old tweeted an apology a short time ago claiming his friend’s Instagram account was hacked:

Photo: @19LEIP

The NHL also issued a statement. It is possible Leipsic will face some kind of punishment.

He is on his fifth team in the past five years. Leipsic signed a one-year, one-way contract worth $700K on July 1 with the Capitals. Prior to Washington, he played for the Toronto Maple Leafs, Vegas Golden Knights, Vancouver Canucks, and Los Angeles Kings.

As a female, it is disturbing learning of Leipsic’s remarks. We don’t know what the outcome will be at this point, but I hope the league will hold him accountable. We will bring you updates as they become available.

By Della Young