Ducks Forward Suspended for Using Performance Enhancing Drugs

The NHL suspended Anaheim Ducks forward Shawn Horcoff for using performance enhancing drugs.

Horcoff is suspended for 20 games without pay.

In a statement released by player’s union, he made no effort to deny the allegations and apologized for his lapse in judgement.

“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, said Horcoff. “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,” he added. “I look forward to the day I return to the ice for the playoff push.”

The Ducks are fighting for a playoff berth, currently sitting in fifth place in the Pacific Division. Horcoff has 10 points for the Ducks this year - six goals and four assists.

Under the suspension, Horcoff will lose more than $300,000 in salary.

According to TSN.com, Horcoff is the fourth player to be suspended for using performance enhancing drugs.

The Ducks management voiced their support for the league’s decision and for Horcoff.

“This morning we were made aware of the situation regarding Shawn Horcoff,” Ducks Executive Vice President/General Manager Bob Murray said in written release. “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.”