Bakersfield Condors defenceman Brandon Manning has been suspended five games for directing a racial slur at an opponent during a game vs. the Ontario Reign on Monday.
The Condors are the AHL affiliate of the Edmonton Oilers.
The 29-year-old Manning said he apologized to the player after Monday’s incident.
“Last night I made comments to an opposing player that were stupid and offensive. After the game, I spoke with the opposing player in person, which I’m very grateful for. He allowed me to apologize and I took full responsibility for what I said,” said Manning in a statement released by the Condors on Tuesday.
“To say I’ve learned from this situation is an understatement and I promise to be better.”
Oilers assistant general manager Keith Gretzky called the comment “unacceptable.”
“This is a very serious matter, we are disappointed by Brandon’s comment and we fully support the American Hockey League’s decision,” said Gretzky in a statement.
“The Oilers and Condors organizations wholeheartedly believe in a respectful workplace and will work to better educate our players on appropriate conduct on and off the ice.”
The Oilers waived Manning at the end of December. He had one point in nine games with the club in 2019-20.
Manning was traded to the Oilers from the Chicago Blackhawks last season, finishing the campaign with four points in 39 games. He is signed through to the end of 2019–20 with a $2.25 million cap hit.
Manning has four points in 10 games for the Condors.
[relatedlinks]