The NHL announced Monday that Florida Panthers defenseman Aaron Ekblad was suspended 20 games for violating the NHL/NHLPA's Performance Enhancing Substances Program. Per the NHL's statement, the suspension also includes "mandatory referral to the NHL/NHLPA Program for Substance Abuse and Behavioral Health for evaluation and possible treatment.

Florida Panthers defenseman Aaron Ekblad has been suspended 20 games without pay for violating the NHL and NHL Players Association’s policy on performance-enhancing drugs.

The Florida Panthers will be shorthanded on defense for the remainder of the season and into the Stanley Cup Playoffs.