Sharks' Nichol suspended for 4 games

SAN JOSE, Calif., Jan. 18 (UPI) -- The NHL Tuesday suspended San Jose forward Scott Nichol for four games for hitting a Phoenix player in the head.

Nichol delivered the blow to the head of Coyotes defenseman David Schlemko in the third period of the Sharks' 4-2 win Monday.

Schlemko was hurt on the play, left the ice and did not return. No penalty was given for the hit.

The infraction will cost Nichol $16,344.08 in pay. The money will go into the Players' Emergency Assistance Fund.

He will be eligible to return to action Feb. 2 at Anaheim.