CHICAGO - Chicago Blackhawks forward Daniel Carcillo was suspended indefinitely by the NHL on Tuesday following his ugly hit on Edmonton's Tom Gilbert.

The league said Carcillo's ban is pending a hearing with the department of player safety.

Carcillo launched Gilbert into the boards 7:23 into the second period of the Oilers' 4-3 victory Monday night. It resulted in a major boarding penalty and a game misconduct.

Gilbert left with a lower-body injury, and Edmonton coach Tom Renney he wasn't sure when he would be able to return.

Carcillo appeared to be favouring his left leg when he was helped off. He has two goals and nine assists in 28 games in his first season with Chicago.

Carcillo also was suspended earlier this season.