Penguins Player Caleb Jones Reacts to NHL's 20-Game 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.”

Jones last played in the NHL in October before sustaining a broken foot in a game against the Panthers. The blueliner was later sent to AHL affiliate Wilkes-Barre/Scranton, where he suffered an upper-body injury in January.

This season, Jones has appeared in seven NHL games with the Penguins, assisting on one goal and averaging 17 minutes, 10 seconds of ice time with a plus-1 plus/minus valuation.

Penguins general manager Kyle Dubas also issued a statement backing Jones.

“Caleb Jones informed us this week that he tested positive for a performance enhancing substance under the NHL/NHLPA Performance Enhancing Substances Program,” Dubas said. “Throughout the process, Caleb has been forthcoming with the organization as to how he believes the positive test occurred. Caleb takes full responsibility for his actions, despite him being unaware that what he consumed was a prohibited substance at the time.

“Caleb has the full support of the Penguins organization, and we look forward to welcoming him back to the ice when he is cleared.”

Jones is under contract through next season with a $900,000 cap hit. He will be eligible to return on April 2 when the Penguins visit the Tampa Bay Lightning.