Anaheim Ducks F Shawn Horcoff suspended 20 games for PED violation

Anaheim Ducks forward Shawn Horcoff is suspended for 20 games for a PED violation.

Anaheim Ducks forward Shawn Horcoff has been suspended 20 games without pay for a performance-enhancing drug violation, the team announced on Tuesday.

The NHL Players’ Association released a statement on behalf of Horcoff following the news.

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

Under terms of the collective bargaining agreement with the NHL Players’ Association, the center must be referred to the joint program for substance abuse and behavioral health for evaluation and possible treatment. Horcoff will also forfeit $357,526.88 in salary.

“This morning we were made aware of the situation regarding Shawn Horcoff. The Anaheim Ducks organization fully supports the NHL/NHLPA Performance Enhancing Substances Program,” Ducks’ Executive Vice President/General Manager Bob Murray said in a statement. “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, 37, has recorded six goals and four assists in 45 games for the Ducks this season. The 15-year veteran began his career in 2000 with the Edmonton Oilers. He joined Anaheim this season after playing with the Dallas Stars from 2013–15. 

Horcoff has played in 994 NHL games in his career.

The Ducks (21-8-7) play the Boston Bruins (26-17-5) at TD Garden on Tuesday night. 

- Beth Maiman