Panthers Defenseman Aaron Ekblad Suspended 20 Games

Florida Panthers defenseman Aaron Ekblad has been suspended 20 games, without pay, for violating the terms of the NHL/NHLPA Performance Enhancing Substances Program, the NHL announced on Monday.

Ekblad, 29, had 3 goals, 30 assists and 33 points in 56 games this season. The Panthers’ top-pair defenseman was riding a season best six-game point streak (7 points) prior to the suspension.

The Panthers have 18 games remaining in the regular season, meaning Ekblad’s suspension will run through the first two games of the playoffs — if the Panthers qualify.

Ekblad released the following statement, via the NHLPA:

“As the NHL announced, I have been suspended for violating the NHL/NHLPA Performance Enhancing Substances Program. 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 down, 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.”

The NHL said they “will have no further comment on this matter.”