Panthers’ Aaron Ekblad set to return from suspension in Game 2 vs. Maple Leafs

A Florida Panthers stalwart is set to return for Game 2.

May 7, 2025 - 18:39

Panthers’ Aaron Ekblad set to return from suspension in Game 2 vs. Maple Leafs

A Florida Panthers stalwart is set to return for Game 2.

Defenceman Aaron Ekblad will re-enter the lineup for the reigning Stanley Cup champions on Wednesday vs. the Toronto Maple Leafs after serving a two-game suspension.

“Really excited. Obviously after Game 1, I’m hoping to provide some energy,” Ekblad said.

Ekblad will replace Uvis Balinskis, who scored Florida’s third goal in Game 1, on the blue line.

The former No. 1 pick was suspended two games for elbowing Tampa Bay’s Brandon Hagel in the first round. He also missed the first two games of that series as he wrapped a 20-game suspension for performance-enhancing drugs.

In 56 regular-season games, the 29-year-old recorded three goals and 30 assists while logging 23:30 per game on the ice.

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Based on morning skate, Ekblad will slot back onto the top pair alongside Gustav Forsling.

Balinskis, the 28-year-old Latvian, notched four goals and 14 assists in 74 regular-season games. His Game 1 goal stands as his lone point in four playoff games.

Up front, Mackie Samoskevich appears set to replace A.J. Greer on a fourth line with Jesper Boqvist and Nico Sturm.

The rookie Samoskevich scored 15 goals and added 16 assists in 72 regular-season games. He has one assist in three post-season contests.

Greer, who had six goals and 11 assists in 81 regular-season games, has yet to hit the score sheet in three playoff tilts.