Former Maple Leafs Player Officially Suspended Amid Shocking Allegations
One former member of the Toronto Maple Leafs has found themselves in some very hot water after being investigated for doping while playing in Europe.
There's always suspensions in hockey, whether it be for a nasty hit to the head, or a misplaced bodycheck, but it's not too often you hear about suspensions in pro hockey due to allegations of doping.
Which is why it's such startling news that former Maple Leafs player Miro Aaltonen, who played with the team in 2017 for the Marlies has been indefinitely suspended and being investigated for doping by the Swiss Sport Integrity Commission.
The organization confirms the ongoing process but explains that it cannot reveal any details until the end of the investigation."
Aaltonen has commented on what circumstances led to these allegations as well:
I will seek help and I assume the consequences of my actions, reports SST. As soon as I am authorized to do so, I wish to return to my work. I offer my most sincere apologies for what I did to my loved ones and to HC Kloten, to the fans and teammates."
Miro Aaltonen's History With The Toronto Maple Leafs
Aaltonen signed with the Leafs on an entry-level deal in 2017, and much like other signees was cut from the team during training camp.
It didn't seem to bother him though, as he exploded for 43 points in 64 games (20G, 23A) and was imperative to the Marlies' Calder win in 2017-18, scoring 13 points in 13 games.
Though he never stuck around with the team, he took his talents to the KHL where he played for Podolsk Vityaz and SKA St. Petersburg before signing a deal with Kloten in 2022.
This season the 31-year old was HC Kloten's highest scorer, with 20 goals and 15 assists, so the team will need to try and find success without him.
HC Kloten is currently sixth in the Swiss League with a 16-6-2-16 record (Wins, Overtime Wins, Overtime Losses, Losses; each has their own point structure).
