The Florida Panthers will have a big hole on their blue line for the rest of the season.
Defenceman Aaron Ekblad was suspended 20 games for violating the terms of the NHL/NHLPA performance enhancing substances program, the league announced Monday.
Under the terms of the collective bargaining agreement, the suspension is accompanied by mandatory referral to the NHL/NHLPA Program for substance abuse and behavioural health for evaluation and possible treatment.
Florida has 18 games left this season.
More to come.
