The vast majority of people interviewed indicated that the tendency of players from eras past to abuse drugs, even painkillers, has shifted. Marijuana use is still considered common and its legalization in many places in the United States and the federal legalization of the drug in Canada has prompted discussions between the NHL and NHLPA about an informal agreement about its usage.

But the growing sense is that some players are spurning the postgame six pack of beer and turning to stronger substances, including hard and synthetic drugs. At least 10 people interviewed for this piece cited cocaine as the vice of choice among NHL players, especially among the younger set. Molly (a pill form of MDMA, which is also known as ecstasy), was frequently mentioned as a drug surging in popularity as well.

-Katie Strang of The Athletic ($$$) where you can read much more on this topic.