Penguins Defenseman Caleb Jones Suspended 20 Games for PED Violation
Pittsburgh Penguins defenseman Caleb Jones has been suspended 20 games without pay after violating the NHL’s performance-enhancing substances program, the league announced Wednesday. The suspension also includes a mandatory referral to the NHL/NHLPA Player Assistance Program for evaluation and potential treatment.
Jones, now 28, issued a statement accepting full responsibility for the violation. While details surrounding the substance or timeline were not disclosed, the league made it clear that no further comment would be provided.
The suspension is a significant setback for Jones, who has been working to carve out a consistent role on the Penguins’ blue line. Known as a depth defenseman with solid skating and puck-moving ability, Jones had been looking to gain traction in Pittsburgh after a brief stint with the Colorado Avalanche last season.
He joined the Avs ahead of the 2023-24 campaign, acquired in a trade that sent forward Cal Burke to the Carolina Hurricanes. Jones was brought in to bolster Colorado’s defensive depth, expected to fill the No. 7 role on the back end. He went on to appear in 25 games for the Avalanche, tallying five assists and providing steady, if unspectacular, minutes when called upon.
Now with Pittsburgh, this 20-game suspension halts his momentum and leaves the Penguins with a gap to fill on their third pairing or extra defenseman rotation. While Jones has never been a top-pairing guy, he’s the kind of player coaches appreciate-reliable, experienced, and capable of stepping in when injuries hit.
The NHL’s performance-enhancing substances program operates jointly with the NHLPA and includes not only testing and discipline but also a strong emphasis on player support. The referral to the assistance program is standard in these cases, offering players access to resources that go beyond just serving a suspension.
For Jones, this is a moment of accountability and, potentially, a turning point. He’s accepted the consequences and will now have time to reflect, reset, and-if he chooses-return to the league with a renewed focus. The Penguins, meanwhile, will have to adjust on the fly, leaning on their depth while Jones serves his time away from the ice.