Nets' Wilson Chandler Suspended 25 Games for Positive PED Test
August 29, 2019
The Brooklyn Nets will start the season without Wilson Chandler after he failed a test for performance-enhancing drugs.
Per ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski, the NBA announced Chandler has been suspended 25 games after testing positive for Ipamorelin, a growth hormone stimulant.
"During my injury rehab process, before I signed with the Nets, I was prescribed a treatment that included small doses of a substance recently added to the NBA's prohibited substance list," Chandler said after the suspension, per ESPN. "I did not realize this substance was banned, and neither did the doctor. I accept responsibility and apologize to my Nets teammates, coaches, front office and fans for this mistake. I will continue to work hard to prepare for the upcoming season."
Brooklyn reshaped its roster this summer with the additions of Kyrie Irving, Kevin Durant, Taurean Prince and DeAndre Jordan. Durant likely won't play this season while he recovers from a ruptured Achilles.
With Chandler out for 25 games, the Nets' depth at forward will be tested. Prince, Caris LeVert and Joe Harris will likely be head coach Kenny Atkinson's primary options, with Rodions Kurucs available off the bench.
Chandler signed a one-year deal with the Nets in July. The 32-year-old started last season with the Philadelphia 76ers before being traded to the Los Angeles Clippers in February as part of the Tobias Harris deal.
He averaged 6.0 points and 4.2 rebounds per game and shot 37.3 percent from three-point range in 2018-19.
Chandler will be eligible to return Dec. 15 when the Nets host the Philadelphia 76ers.
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