Aaron Ekblad

Aaron Ekblad, born on February 7, 1996, in Windsor, Ontario, Canada, is a prominent defenseman in the National Hockey League (NHL). Ekblad was the first overall pick in the 2014 NHL Draft, selected by the Florida Panthers. Standing 6 feet 4 inches tall and weighing 220 pounds, he is known for his commanding presence on the ice. Ekblad made his NHL debut in the 2014-2015 season, marking the start of a significant career. Known for his defensive skills and ability to contribute offensively, he has become a key player for the Panthers. Over his career, Ekblad has accumulated numerous points, including goals and assists, showcasing his dual-threat capability. He has a shooting percentage of 3.8% in the 2025 regular season, with notable achievements including two winning goals and one power-play goal. Throughout his career, Ekblad has faced challenges, including injuries, which have at times placed him on the injured reserve list. Despite these setbacks, his resilience and performance continue to make him a valuable asset to his team. Ekblad's average ice time of 22:15 per game during the 2025 season underscores his integral role in the Panthers' lineup. His experience, skill set, and leadership qualities have contributed significantly to the team's success and playoff runs. With jersey number 5, Ekblad remains a cornerstone of the Panthers' defense.