Panthers defenseman Aaron Ekblad suspended 20 games by NHL

Florida Panthers defenseman Aaron Ekblad has been suspended by the NHL.

The league announced the 20-game suspension on Monday afternoon.

According to the NHL, “Ekblad has been suspended for 20 games, without pay, for violating the terms of the NHL/NHLPA Performance Enhancing Substances Program.”

The Panthers have 18 games remaining on their regular season schedule, so the suspension would carry over into the playoffs.

Per the NHL, “Under the terms of the Collective Bargaining Agreement, the suspension is accompanied by mandatory referral to the NHL/NHLPA Program for Substance Abuse and Behavioral Health for evaluation and possible treatment.”

After the announcement, Ekblad released a statement through the NHLPA, which can be seen in the tweet below:

Ekblad has three goals and 33 points through 56 games for Florida so far this season.

The Panthers will be back in action on Tuesday night when they face the Boston Bruins.