Ekblad Takes Over Panthers' Top Power Play with Jones Out

Florida Panthers defenseman Aaron Ekblad is receiving a significant boost in ice time, taking over quarterbacking duties on the first power play unit due to Seth Jones' upper-body injury. Ekblad has recorded six goals and 18 assists in 40 games this season, with five goals and eight assists coming on the man advantage. His offensive production is expected to further benefit from the impending return of Matthew Tkachuk from groin surgery.