The Florida Panthers will have a key piece of their defense on the sidelines for the next two games. Defenseman Aaron Ekblad has been suspended for two games following a high hit in Game 4 of their first-round series against the Tampa Bay Lightning. This was not Ekblad's first suspension, but it may be the one with the worst timing.
Panthers look to eliminate Lightning
The Panthers will look to eliminate Tampa Bay on Wednesday night as they hold a 3-1 series lead. While both teams have played feisty games, Florida has capitalized on its chances in the offensive zone. Florida is again playing a patient game and waiting for its opportunity to strike. While the final game to win is never an easy one, look for Florida to not change a thing and wait out the Lightning in Game 5.
Panthers' Ekblad will be missed
The National Hockey League's Department of Player Safety announced Ekblad was suspended two games for his high hit on Lightning forward Brandon Hagel midway through the second period of Game 4. Hagel will miss a critical game five as he sits due to injury.
The 6-foot-4, 220-pound Ekblad plays a physical game and has done so since his NHL debut. He has also gotten into his share of fights, giving him a nice overall game that combines offensive flair with toughness. He has one goal in two playoff games but he will be missed due to his veteran leadsership and minutes played.
Defensemen Uvis Balinskis, Gustav Forsling, and Nikko Mikkola may see extra ice time in the next two games to replace the time Ekblad would have spent on the ice. This is where depth comes into play as Florida has a nice complement of defensemen who can step in and not miss a beat. They will be counted on to disrupt the Tampa Bay offense and limit their scoring opportunities in their defensive zone.
Ekblad's only other suspension came as a 20-game suspension for performance-enhancing substance abuse. He was part of the 2024 Stanley Cup-winning Florida team. He will be eligible to return in Game 6 if that game is needed. If not, he will return in the second round if the Panthers make it that far.