On March 10, 2025, Florida Panther’s defenseman Aaron Ekblad was suspended for twenty games for violating the terms of the NHL/NHLPA Performance Enhancing Substances Program.[i] At the time of the suspension, the Panthers had eighteen games remaining, and as it currently stands, are on pace to make the 2025 NHL playoffs. [ii] Ekblad is expected to return for the third game of the Eastern Conference First Round. [iii]
Following his suspension, Ekblad took full accountability, publicly apologizing to his teammates, fans, and the Panthers organization. [iv] He stated that he has “learned a hard lesson and cannot wait to be back with my teammates.”[v]
According to rule 47.7 of the NHL Collective Bargaining Agreement, any positive test for performance enhancing substances on the Prohibited Substances List results in mandatory discipline.[vi] Ekblad’s suspension was issued pursuant to subsection (i) of rule 47.7, which mandates a 20-game suspension without pay and a mandatory referral to the SABH Program for evaluation and possible treatment. [vii]
If Ekblad were to test positive a second time, he would face a 60-game suspension without pay and another mandatory referral to the SABH Program for evaluation and possible treatment pursuant to subsection (ii). [viii] Lastly, under subsection (iii) a third positive test, is a “permanent” suspension, although a player could reapply after a minimum of two years. [ix]
The SABH Program stands for the Substance Abuse and Behavioral Health Program of the NHL and NHLPA. [x] This program protects players’ privacy by giving them access to confidential phone lines, and counselors. [xi] Players can voluntarily enter the program. [xii] Those who participate without being suspended will continue to receive their salaries while stepping away from hockey to focus on their well-being. [xiii]
Ekblad’s suspension requires him to be in the program for 20 days. He will likely have to complete the four stages of the program. [xiv] The first stage is entering the program. [xv] The second stage is any violation of stage one triggers suspension without pay while player undergoes treatment. [xvi] The third stage is any violation of stage two triggers a 6-month suspension at a minimum followed by an application for reinstatement. [xvii] The fourth stage is any violation of the third stage triggers a minimum of one-year suspension, and reinstatement is not guaranteed.[xviii]
[i] https://www.nhl.com/news/florida-panthers-aaron-ekblad-suspended-20-games
[vi] https://media.d3.nhle.com/image/private/t_document/prd/fax2ywhso1fymadf702u.pdf
[x] https://www.sportingnews.com/us/nhl/news/nhl-nhlpa-player-assistance-program/hspgaxshyg0uildegf02tbg4
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