Florida Panthers defenseman Aaron Ekblad has taken another step that will eventually lead him to a return to play.
On Tuesday, the 26-year-old fullback skated with his teammates. However, he did not participate in the exercises and still cannot receive contacts.
“I hope there will be no clashes and that he will continue his progress. It was great to see him with our group today [mardi]said Panthers head coach Andrew Brunette, whose remarks were reported by nhl.com.
Ekblad suffered a lower-body injury March 18 and isn’t expected to return until the playoffs begin. Before getting hurt, the very first pick in the 2014 draft was having a dream season. In 61 games, he amassed 15 goals and 42 assists for 57 points. This is his highest career points total in a campaign.
Brunette wants to make sure she doesn’t skip any steps with her star defender.
“We have to play a little cautious with him,” he said. We don’t want to push it too hard. His body will tell him when he’s ready to come back, but it’s positive to see him on the ice. Hopefully we will be able to incorporate it into exercises with our group soon.”
With six games remaining in their regular season, the Panthers are virtually guaranteed to finish the campaign first in the Eastern Conference standings. They are still battling with the Colorado Avalanche for the Presidents’ Trophy.