Blackhawks forward Andrew Shaw could face discipline due to his use of a gay slur

The NHL is investigating whether Chicago Blackhawks forward Andrew Shaw used a gay slur during a playoff loss to the St. Louis Blues on Tuesday night.

NHL deputy commissioner Bill Daly said Wednesday that the Blackhawks have been informed that the league was looking into the possible use of a homophobic slur by Shaw.

“Yes we are looking into it, and no we can’t comment on it until that process is complete,” Daly told the Chicago Tribune.

Shaw and the Blackhawks released statements later Wednesday.

“I am sincerely sorry for the insensitive remarks that I made last night while in the penalty box,” Shaw said. “When I got home and saw the video, it was evident that what I did was wrong, no matter the circumstances. I apologize to many people, including the gay and lesbian community, the Chicago Blackhawks organization, Blackhawks fans and anyone else I may have offended. I know my words were hurtful and I will learn from my mistake.”

Shaw was livid, pounding on the glass with his stick, after being sent to the penalty box for interference with 2:04 left in the third period and the Blackhawks trailing 4-3 and needing a win to even the series at 2-2.

“We are extremely disappointed in Andrew Shaw’s actions last night,” the Blackhawks said in the statement. “His comments do not reflect what we stand for as an organization. We are proud to have an inclusive and respectful environment, and to support various initiatives such as the You Can Play Project and the Chicago Gay Hockey Association. We will use this opportunity to further educate our players and organization moving forward, so that we all may learn from it.”

In Game 4, Shaw protested and appeared to hold up both middle fingers (with his gloves on) toward officials while heading to the penalty box. While in the box, he appeared to shout a homophobic slur at the officials.

“Emotions are high; I don’t know what’s said,” Shaw said after the 4-3 loss. “I was obviously upset with the call, being late in game. It doesn’t give us a chance to tie it up.”

Reporters pressed Shaw about whether he used the slur.

“Being like I just said — I’ll repeat myself for you — emotions are high,” said Shaw, who a goal and two assists in the game. “I don’t know what was said. Obviously, I was upset with the call. I wasn’t happy with the call.”

Shaw could face a suspension due to his behavior as the Blues hold a 3-1 lead in the best-of-seven first-round series. Game 5 is scheduled in St. Louis on Thursday night.