Florida Panthers defenseman Aaron Ekblad has been suspended for 20 games due to a violation of the NHL's performance-enhancing substances program. This includes mandatory referral for evaluation and possible treatment. Ekblad expressed regret over his mistake after failing a random drug test, admitting his actions were taken in an attempt to recover from injuries without consulting proper medical staff. With just 18 games left in the season, he will miss the remainder of the regular season and the first two playoff games, greatly impacting the team's defense roster.
"The news that I had failed a random drug test was a shock... 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 friends down. For that, I am truly sorry. I have accepted responsibility for my mistake."
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