Panthers' Aaron Ekblad Suspended 20 Games: How NHL's Performance-Enhancing Substance Program Works
Aaron Ekblad (Sam Navarro-Imagn Images)Florida Panthers defenseman Aaron Ekblad is suspended for 20 games for violating the terms of the NHL and NHLPA Performance Enhancing Substances Program.
Ekblad is suspended without pay for the rest of the regular season and the first two games of the playoffs if the Panthers make it – while they haven't clinched a playoff spot yet, they lead the Atlantic Division by four points.
The program oversees the administration of random testing for prohibited performance-enhancing substances, provides treatment following positive test results, educates all players about the health risks of using those substances and imposes penalties, among other responsibilities.
"Under the terms of the collective bargaining agreement, the suspension is accompanied by a mandatory referral to the NHL and NHLPA Program for Substance Abuse and Behavioral Health (SABH) for evaluation and possible treatment," said the league's statement. "The National Hockey League will have no further comment on the matter."
"The news that I had failed a random drug test was a shock," he 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."
Article 47 of the NHL and NHLPA CBA explains the Performance Enhancing Substances Program, including its responsibilities, the testing process and what happens after positive test results.
During the regular season, each club is randomly selected for team-wide no-notice testing once during training camp and the regular season. Individual players will also be chosen randomly for no-notice testing during the regular season and playoffs, as long as they aren't on game days or days off. The program can also conduct up to 60 tests on individual players during the off-season.
When there's an "adverse" test result, the program doctors contact the player to notify them of the situation and their right to offer an alternative medical explanation for the result. If the player gives an explanation, the program doctors can request information and documents and collect other relevant evidence to decide on the validity of that explanation.
The first positive test carries a 20-game suspension without pay and mandatory referral to the SABH Program. The second positive test carries a 60-game suspension without pay and a referral. The third positive test leads to a "permanent" suspension, although the player can reapply for reinstatement after two years.
The NHLPA can appeal a positive test result on behalf of the player to an arbitrator. But the player can't be suspended – and identified – until the arbitrator decides on the grievance.
"I have accepted responsibility for my mistake and will be fully prepared to return to my team when my suspension is over," Ekblad said. "I have learned a hard lesson and cannot wait to be back with my teammates."
Ekblad, 29, has three goals and 30 assists for 33 points in 56 games this season.
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