The NHL has suspended Chicago Blackhawks forward Andrew Shaw for one game for his use of a homophobic slur after receiving a penalty in the third period of Game 4 of the team's first-round series with the St. Louis Blues. He has also been fined $5,000 for his "inappropriate gesture" -- two middle fingers -- directed at the referee. The league also announced that Shaw will be required to undergo sensitivity training.

As a result of his suspension, Shaw will miss Thursday's Game 5 with the Blackhawks facing elimination at the hands of the Blues, who lead the first round series 3-1.

NHL senior vice president of hockey operations Colin Campbell, who is responsible for ruling on abuse of officials and other such matters, issued the following statement along with the announcement of the supplemental discipline:

“While Mr. Shaw was apologetic and remorseful for both the offensive comments and the inappropriate gesture directed at the on-ice officials, he must be held accountable for his actions. The emotion of the moment cannot and will not be a mitigating factor for the conduct that is expected of an NHL player.”

This is believed to be the first suspension of a player for comments made on the ice since 2011.