Ex-Maple Leafs Prospect Has Contract Terminated, Explains Anti-Doping Rule Violation
PUBLICATION
TJ Tucker
January 19, 2025 (8:06 PM)
Photo credit: The Athletic
After having his contract terminated for violating anti-doping rules, former Toronto Maple Leafs prospect Miro Aaltonen has released an explanation for his actions.
"During the break before Christmas in 2024, I was in a nightclub and apparently consumed a substance for recreational purposes that is not performance enhancing, but is banned in sport.
I will get the help I need and accept the consequences of my actions. As soon as I am allowed to do so, I would like to return to my profession. I sincerely apologize to my loved ones, Kloten, fans and teammates for my actions."
While he was temporarily suspended until an official ruling from the league, HC Kloten of the National League in Switzerland has since decided to terminate Aaltonen's contract.
Aaltonen already has a contract with SC Bern of the Swiss National League for the 2025-26, and 2026-27 seasons. There is currently no word on whether that team will keep the 31-year-old an honour the contract.
After a solid season with the Toronto Marlies, Aaltonen was a major factor for the team in winning the AHL's 2018 Calder Cup. He had 20 goals and 43 points in 63 regular season games, and added another 13 points in the AHL playoffs, including a huge overtime goal.
After failing to get a taste of the NHL in the 2017-18 season, Aaltonen signed in the KHL, and played there before signing with HC Kloten in Switzerland in 2022.
Previously on MapleLeafsDaily
POLL |
JANVIER 19 | 1444 ANSWERS Ex-Maple Leafs Prospect Has Contract Terminated, Explains Anti-Doping Rule Violation Should SC Bern still honour Aaltonen's future contract after his anti-doping rule violation? |
Yes | 301 | 20.8 % |
No | 748 | 51.8 % |
I'm not sure | 395 | 27.4 % |
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