Nightmare season just got worse for Penguins defenseman with massive suspension

The NHL has handed down a significant suspension to Pittsburgh Penguins defenseman Caleb Jones, sidelining him for 20 games for violating the league’s Performance Enhancing Substances Program.

Jones has not appeared in a game since October 23, missing 45 contests while listed with a lower-body injury. Earlier this week, however, there were signs that a return could be nearing. The 28-year-old was spotted wearing a regular jersey at Penguins practice, often an indication that a player is close to rejoining the lineup.

That momentum came to an abrupt halt with the league’s announcement, effectively extending Jones’ absence well into the season and making this bad season even worse…

The suspension adds another layer of uncertainty to Pittsburgh’s blue line depth as the team continues to navigate injuries and roster challenges.

Jones has played just seven games this season, recording one assist. While his on-ice impact has been limited, the timing of the suspension raises questions, particularly given the recent optimism surrounding his recovery.

Under the NHL’s policy, suspensions for violations of the Performance Enhancing Substances Program are issued without pay and do not require the league to disclose further details. For the Penguins, it’s an unexpected development at a moment when they were hoping to get healthier, not lose another option.

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.”