Florida Panthers defenseman Aaron Ekblad has been suspended for 20 games for violating the National Hockey League's performance-enhancing substances program, the league announced Monday.
The suspension will result in him missing the final 18 games of the regular season and the first two games of the playoffs — without pay — as the Panthers prepare to defend their Stanley Cup title. It also means he will not be playing in the New York Rangers upcoming matchup against the Panthers on Monday, April 14th.
He is being referred to the mandatory NHL/NHLPA Program for Substance Abuse and Behavioral Health for evaluation and possible treatment.
BREAKING: #FlaPanthers defender Aaron Ekblad has been suspended for 20 games, without pay, for violating the terms of the NHL/NHLPA Performance Enhancing Substances Program. #TimeToHunt
— NHL News (@PuckReportNHL) March 10, 2025
"The news that I had failed a random drug test was a shock," Ekblad said via the NHL Players Association following the announcement of the suspension. "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."
Ekblad's suspension is the NHL's first PED-related suspension in over six years. Nate Schmidt — then with the Vegas Golden Knights — received a 20-game ban on Sept. 2, 2018.
Ekblad, 29-years-old, and his suspension serve as a devastating loss to Florida. He averaged a team-best 23:31 in ice time, and his 33 points lead Panthers defensemen. The 6'4", 220 pound defenseman had six points in 24 games during Florida's playoff run in 2024.
Puck drop between the Rangers and Florida is slated for 7:00 p.m. EST on April 14th.