Panthers' Ekblad expected to return Saturday after missing nearly a month

Florida Panthers defenseman Aaron Ekblad is expected to return to the lineup Saturday against the Edmonton Oilers, head coach Paul Maurice said Tuesday.

Ekblad missed the last 10 games after suffering a lower-body injury on Oct. 17 against the Boston Bruins.

The 26-year-old has registered one goal and zero assists in three games this season. He finished sixth in Norris Trophy voting last year after producing 57 points in only 61 games.

Injuries have been a common theme for Ekblad in recent years. He only played in 35 contests in 2021 after suffering a season-ending broken leg.