Aaron Ekblad has been suspended 20 games for violating the terms of the NHL/NHLPA performance enhancing substances program. Ekblad is the top defenseman for the Florida Panthers and will miss the remaining 18 games of the regular season and their initial two playoff games.
Ekblad released a statement via the NHL Players\' Association shortly after the suspension was made public.
\"The news that I had failed a random drug test was a shock,\" Ekblad said. \"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.\"