The Florida Panthers will have a big hole on their blue line for the rest of the season.
Defenceman Aaron Ekblad was suspended 20 games for violating the terms of the NHL/NHLPA performance enhancing substances program, the league announced Monday.
Under the terms of the collective bargaining agreement, the suspension is accompanied by mandatory referral to the NHL/NHLPA Program for substance abuse and behavioural health for evaluation and possible treatment.
“As the NHL announced, I have been suspended for violating the NHL/NHLPA performance enhancing substances program,” Ekblad said in a statement. “The news that I had failed a random drug test was a shock. Ultimately, I made a mistake by taking something to help me recover from recent injuries without first checking with proper medical and team personnel.
“I have let my teammates, the Panthers organization and our great fans down. For that, I am truly sorry. I have accepted responsibility for my mistake and will be fully prepared to return to my team when my suspension is over. I have learned a hard lesson and cannot wait to be back with my teammates.”
Florida has 18 games left this season.
Ekblad’s eight-year, $60-million contract expires after this season.
The two-time All-Star has three goals and 30 assists in 56 games this season.
Last year, Ekblad helped the Panthers win the Stanley Cup.
The Panthers picked the Barrie Colts product first overall in the 2014 NHL Draft.
Read More Details
Finally We wish PressBee provided you with enough information of ( Panthers’ Aaron Ekblad suspended 20 games for PED program violation )
Also on site :
- Trader Joe's is Giving This Viral Chocolate Bar Its Own Spin and Shoppers 'Can't Wait' To Try It
- Sputnik V creator warns of global ‘cat flu’ pandemic
- Former Microsoft engineer fired over protest on Israel AI ties