San Jose Sharks forward Scott Nichol has been suspended for four games for elbowing Phoenix defenceman David Schlemko in the head, the NHL said Tuesday.

Nichol, 36, will forfeit $16,344 in salary, the NHL said in a release.

Schlemko was injured on the third-period play and did not return to the game Monday, won by the Sharks 4-2. Nichol will be eligible to return on February 2.