NHL.com: Vegas Golden Knights forward Valentin Zykov has been suspended for 20 games for violating the league Performance Enhancing Substances Program.
“Needless to say we’re extremely disappointed with the result but we are very supportive of the program,” McPhee said. “Unfortunately, Zykov knowingly took supplements, tested positive and is suspended and we support the suspension.”
Statement from Zykov.
“I want to apologize to my family, my teammates, and the Golden Knights organization and fans,” Zykov said in a statement. “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.”
Stephen Whyno: Statement from the Golden Knights: “Valentin knowingly used a banned substance without the consent, recommendation or knowledge of our team.”
Darren Dreger: Zykov has said in a statement that he isn’t sure how he tested positive. Vegas isn’t backing down from Zykov “knowingly” took the substance.
Jesse Granger: George McPhee said that Zykov told him yesterday that he knowingly took the substance and that he’s taken that sort of substance for the past four years.
Darren Dreger: Zykov’s agent denies that Zykov knew he was taking a banned substance: “He did not knowingly take a banned substance”. “I stand behind my client 100%.”
Justin Emerson: McPhee doesn’t believe that Zykov is eligible to play in Russia while suspended, though he’s not sure. McPhee added that they will evaluate is roster spot with the team after the suspension.