NEW YORK – Vegas Golden Knights forward Valentin Zykov has been suspended for 20 games, without pay, for violating the terms of the NHL/NHLPA Performance Enhancing Substances Program.
Under the terms of the Collective Bargaining Agreement, the suspension is accompanied by mandatory referral to the NHL/NHLPA Program for Substance Abuse and Behavioral Health for evaluation and possible treatment.
“We were notified by the NHL and NHLPA that Valentin has violated the terms of the NHL/NHLPA Performance Enhancing Substances Program” said the Golden Knights in a statement. “We monitor the nutrition, supplement intake, and overall diet of our athletes on a continual basis throughout our entire season. Valentin knowingly used a banned substance without the consent, recommendation or knowledge of our team. We support the NHL/NHLPA Performance Enhancing Substances Program and respect the decision here.”
The National Hockey League will have no further comment on this matter.
“I’ve been informed that I am being suspended for 20 games under the NHL/NHLPA Performance Enhancing Substances Program,” said Zykov in his own statement. “While I haven’t been able to discover how I tested positive, I understand that I am responsible for what is in my body and will accept this penalty. I want to apologize to my family, my teammates, and the Golden Knights organization and fans. I will work hard during my suspension to ensure that I put myself in the best possible position to contribute to my team when my suspension is over.”
Last season, Vegas’ Nate Schmidt was suspended for the same number for a PED violation.
Zykov, 24, has iced in seven games this season, recording two assists.
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