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Maple Leafs Viktor Loov Says There’s “A Lot of Cocaine” in the NHL

By Chris Okrainetz

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In a conversation with a Swedish news outlet, Maple Leafs prospect Viktor Loov said there is “a lot of cocaine” in the NHL.

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Maple Leafs prospect Viktor Loov made some interesting comments when he discussed cocaine and drug abuse in professional hockey leagues in North America, which were brought to light by the good folks over at Pension Plan Puppets.

Loov’s comments were published last Friday in the Swedish news outlet, LT, which is based in his hometown, Södertälje.

According to Google translate, here’s what Loov had to say:

"“In the NHL, there is a lot of cocaine. There is certainly in the AHL too.”"

Very candid, but surprising statement from Loov, who has been in the AHL for one season. He then went on to say that he has not seen any of his Marlies teammates use drugs.

"“I have not seen anything, no teammates that I know.”"

The reporter then asked Loov to confirm his previous statement.

"“Sure, it is so the talking goes, but I’m sure it’s not just talk. There are players everywhere who are doing it. If you have money then it is easier to get a hold of it. Then you might be a little different attitude towards it over there than in Sweden.”"

Aside from cocaine, Loov basically implied that “stuff you smoke”, likely marijuana, is also common among hockey players.

"“Not cocaine, perhaps, but hashish and stuff that you smoke, it’s encountered everywhere, all the time.”"

Loov did acknowledge that you don’t want everyone talking about substance abuse issues, but he did also mention that he feels the NHL isn’t putting much time into the situation either.

"“You don’t want everyone talking about it. But it does not feel like the NHL is really taking it seriously.”"

Loov also touched on drinking in the league, former teammates Carter Ashton and Brad Ross, who were both suspended last season for performance enhancing substances, and how he believes in working his way up in the NHL.

Sep 23, 2014; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Toronto Maple Leafs defenceman Viktor Loov (65) skates against the Philadelphia Flyers at the Air Canada Centre. Toronto defeated Philadelphia 4-0. Mandatory Credit: John E. Sokolowski-USA TODAY Sports

The conversation is interesting, particularly the topic of substance abuse, but I wouldn’t expect the NHL to embark on a NARCOS DEA-like investigation of players across the league. It’s no secret hockey players like to party, it’s practically a cliché in Ontario. However, it doesn’t mean the NHL has a substance abuse epidemic on their hands.

Yes, the Mike Richards case turned out pretty bad, considering it was well documented he liked to party hard, particularly with former teammate Jeff Carter. But he’s one of the few players.

I’m not going to be naïve and assume players are squeaky clean, but at the same time, let’s not assume this is some striking revelation and the entire league should be tested immediately. It’s an interesting topic and one that we can cite should any player be suspended for substance abuse this season.

What do you think about Loov’s comments Leafs’ fans? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.

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