The NHL has announced that Arizona Coyotes defenseman Jarred Tinordi has been suspended for 20 games for violating the league’s Performance Enhanching Substances Program.
The suspension will be without pay, and Tinordi will be referred to the NHL/NHLPA Program for Substance Abuse and Behavioral Health for evaluation and possible treatment.
“I am extremely disappointed that I failed a test under the NHL/NHLPA Performance Enhancing Substances Program,” Tinordi said in a statement released by the Coyotes. “I did not knowingly take a banned substance. I understand, however, that I am responsible for what enters my body as a professional athlete and I accept the suspension. I will work hard towards my return to the ice and will learn from this frustrating setback.”
Coyotes general manager Don Maloney said that the team was made aware of the suspension on Tuesday afternoon. He added that the organization “fully supports” the drug policy, and will also support Tinordi during the process.
With just 16 games left in the Coyotes’ season, it’s clear that Tinordi, a pending restricted free agent, will see his suspension carried over into the 2016-17 season. Whether it’s with the Coyotes or another team, obviously, remains to be seen. Tinordi was acquired by the Coyotes in the trade that saw NHL All-Star John Scott dealt to the Montreal.