Ducks' Horcoff suspended 20 games for violating league's PED program

Anaheim Ducks forward Shawn Horcoff has been suspended 20 games without pay for violating the terms of the NHL and NHLPA's Performance Enhancing Substances Program.

Horcoff will be required to enter the NHL and NHLPA Program for Substance Abuse and Behavioral Health for evaluation and possible treatment, under the terms of the league's collective bargaining agreement.

He explained the positive test in a written statement, according to Eric Stephens of the Orange County Register:

While recovering from an injury I suffered this past fall, I tried a treatment that I believed would help speed up the healing process.

Although I was unaware that this treatment was not permitted under NHL rules, that is no excuse whatsoever. I should have done my research and I should have checked with the NHL/NHLPA Performance Enhancing Substances Program’s doctors. I accept full responsibility for my actions, and I am sorry.

Throughout my entire career, I have felt genuinely blessed and honored to play the great game of hockey, and I regret the impact that this may have on my team and our fans. I look forward to the day I return to the ice for the playoff push.

Ducks general manager Bob Murray said the team supports the 37-year-old center despite the suspension.

"This morning, we were made aware of the situation regarding Shawn Horcoff," Murray wrote in a statement.

"The Anaheim Ducks organization fully supports the NHL/NHLPA Performance Enhancing Substances Program. We will also continue to support Shawn as a player and person throughout this process. We will have no further comment at this time."

Horcoff will be docked $357,526.88. He recorded 10 points in 45 games with the Ducks.