Wisniewski Suspended Two Games for Obscene Gesture

New York Islanders defenseman James Wisniewski has been suspended for two games for making an obscene gesture to New York Rangers forward Sean Avery during Monday's game in Long Island.

"A lot of actions on the ice are regrettable," Wisniewski said. "I've been given a suspension from the league and I'm going to accept it and move on from here."

Wisniewski and Avery jostled in front of the Islanders' net after the play was stopped in the first period Monday. Wisniewski made the gesture with his hand and mouth at Avery as the two were separated by officials.

Wisniewski will miss the Islanders' game on Wednesday against the Washington Capitals and Friday's game against the Pittsburgh Penguins.

Before the season started Chicago Blackhawks defenseman Nick Boynton was suspended for a regular-season game for making a throat-slashing gesture during a preseason game against Tampa.

While playing for Anaheim last season, Wisniewski was suspended on March 17 for eight games after he knocked Blackhawks defenseman Brent Seabrook out of a game with a hard check into the glass.

Wisniewski is now considered a repeat offender under the terms of the collective bargaining agreement. Because of that he will lose two games' salary worth $79,268.30 instead of two days' salary.