Penguins defenceman Jones suspended 20 games for drug violation

Pittsburgh Penguins defenceman Caleb Jones has been suspended 20 games, without pay, for violating the terms of the NHL/NHLPA Performance Enhancing Substances Program, the NHL announced on Wednesday.

Under the current CBA, the ban has been turned over to NHL/NHLPA Player Assistance Program for evaluation and possible treatment.

Jones, 28, is in his eighth NHL season.

Later on Wednesday, Jones released a statement through the NHLPA taking responsibility for the suspension.

“At the time of the test, I was receiving an exosome therapy for a documented injury from an outside provider,” Jones said. “I believe that my positive test was related to a contaminated substance associated with that treatment. While I did not use the prohibited substance intentionally or for performance enhancement, I understand that players are responsible for everything that enters their body and accept the discipline imposed by the program. I’m sorry to have let down my teammates, the Penguins organization, and our fans.”

A native of Arlington, TX, Jones has appeared in seven games for the Pens this season. He has an assist and has averaged 17:10 of ice time a night.

Jones has played in 255 career games with the Pens, Los Angeles Kings, Colorado Avalanche, Chicago Blackhawks and Edmonton Oilers.

Jones is the younger brother of Florida Panthers defenceman Seth Jones and the son of Dallas Mavericks assistant coach and former Toronto Raptors forward Popeye Jones.