The American Hockey League has handed down significant suspensions to two promising NHL prospects, Rockford IceHogs goaltender Stanislav Berezhnoy and Coachella Valley Firebirds forward David Goyette. Both players have been suspended for 20 games for violating the terms of the AHL/PHPA Performance Enhancing Substance Program, a penalty that mirrors the NHL’s own policies regarding such violations. The suspensions cast a shadow over the development of these young athletes and raise questions about the ongoing battle against performance-enhancing substances in professional hockey.
The AHL announced the suspensions earlier this week, stating that this is believed to be a first-time offense for both players, meaning they will be ineligible for recall to their respective NHL teams during the ban. The suspensions come at a critical juncture in their careers, potentially impacting their development and opportunities to prove themselves at the highest level.
Berezhnoy, a 22-year-old goaltender, is in his first season in North America after signing a two-year, entry-level contract with the Chicago Blackhawks last summer. He has appeared in 15 games for the IceHogs, posting a 5-9-1 record with a 3.18 goals-against average and a .888 save percentage according to Pro Hockey Rumors. Berezhnoy received a brief recall to the Blackhawks in January due to a goaltending shortage, but did not see any game action. He has already served one game of his suspension and is eligible to return to the IceHogs lineup on April 11th as reported by the AHL.
Goyette, drafted in the second round (61st overall) by the Seattle Kraken in 2022, is in his second season under an entry-level contract. The 21-year-old forward has struggled to replicate his junior success in the professional ranks. He previously recorded 282 points in 197 games over three seasons in the Ontario Hockey League, but has managed just 10 points in 47 appearances for the Firebirds this season, following an 18-point campaign last year as detailed by Pro Hockey Rumors. Goyette is slated to return to the Firebirds lineup on April 10th according to the AHL.
Impact on Team Playoff Pushes
The timing of these suspensions is particularly noteworthy as the AHL season nears its conclusion. Both the IceHogs and the Firebirds are currently vying for playoff positions, and the absence of these players could prove detrimental to their respective teams’ chances. With just over a week remaining in the regular season after their returns, reintegrating Berezhnoy and Goyette into the lineup could present a challenge for their coaches, especially if their teams are still engaged in a tight playoff race.
The AHL/PHPA Performance Enhancing Substance Program is designed to maintain the integrity of the league and ensure fair competition. The program’s penalties are consistent with those imposed by the NHL, underscoring the commitment to a drug-free environment at all levels of professional hockey. TSN reports that the suspensions are a result of violations of this program.
Whereas the specific substances involved have not been disclosed, the 20-game suspensions send a clear message that the league takes these violations seriously. The suspensions likewise serve as a cautionary tale for other players, emphasizing the importance of adhering to the program’s rules, and regulations.
The suspensions of Berezhnoy and Goyette highlight the challenges faced by young athletes as they navigate the pressures of professional hockey. The desire to succeed can sometimes lead to questionable decisions, and these suspensions serve as a reminder of the potential consequences.
Looking ahead, both players will have the opportunity to learn from this experience and return to the ice with a renewed focus on their development. Their ability to regain their form and contribute to their teams’ success will be closely watched in the coming weeks and months. The focus now shifts to how both the IceHogs and Firebirds will manage their rosters in the final stretch of the season and prepare for the playoffs, if they qualify.
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