NHL and IOC to clear up drug testing procedures

While Nicklas Backstrom wasn't able to play in the gold medal game at the Sochi Olympics in February, after he failed a drug test due to allergy medication he was taking, he was awarded his silver medal last week.

CBC's Glen Healy reports there will be changes to the way the NHL and IOC communicate and handle drug testing if the NHL goes to the Winter Olympics in 2018.

"Guaranteed if the players to go the Olympics, this will be another area they will clean up. The players association will say 'this can't happen.'"

Backstrom was informed two hours before the gold medal game he would not be able to participate. Team Sweden was informed just 10 minutes prior to puck drop. Backstrom talked about how the opportunity to play in one of the biggest games of his life was taken away from him. 

The procedure in place holds NHL and team doctors responsible for enlightening the IOC on any medical conditions or medications an athlete needs to avoid confusion.

Backstrom was also tested four days prior to the gold medal game. Before any results were made public and any punishment was handed down, Backstrom also played in the semifinal against Finland.