April 20--The NHL is investigating the use of a homophobic slur by Chicago Blackhawks forward Andrew Shaw during Game 4 of the Western Conference quarterfinals Tuesday night at the United Center.
NHL Deputy Commissioner Bill Daly said in an email to the Tribune on Wednesday, "yes we are looking into it, and no we can't comment on it until that process is complete."
After being assessed an interference penalty late in the Blues' 4-3 victory, Shaw was yelling at officials while seated in the penalty box and video of the incident appeared to show him using a homophobic slur.
In a statement on Wednesday afternoon, Shaw said: "I am sincerely sorry for the insensitive remarks that I made last night while in the penalty box. When I got home and saw the video, it was evident that what I did was wrong, no matter the cifcumstances. 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."
The Blackhawks added in a statement: "We are extremely disappointed in Andrew Shaw's actions last night. 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."
After Tuesday's game, Shaw was asked if he had used a slur.
"I mean, emotions are high, I really don't know what's said," Shaw said. "I was obviously upset with the call being that late in the game (as) it doesn't give us a chance to tie it up."
When asked again if he used the slur, Shaw replied: "Like I just said, I can repeat myself for you. Emotions were high. I don't know what was said. Obviously, I was upset with the call. It was late in the game like that. I wasn't happy with the call."
Shaw also appeared to hold up both middle fingers (with his gloves on) toward officials while heading to the penalty box.
Shaw could be disciplined for the incident as the NHL's Hockey Operations has done so in the past disciplined with players for obscene gestures or language.
The "You Can Play Project," which "believes athletes should be judged on talent, heart, and work ethic, not sexual orientation or gender identity" and has partnered with several major sports, including the NHL, on Tuesday night tweeted: "We are aware of tonight's incident and will be reaching out to the NHL immediately to assist in an appropriate response."
