NHL suspends Florida Panthers' Aaron Ekblad for two games – Hockey Writer – NHL News
The NHL announced today (April 29) that Florida Panthers guard Aaron Ekblad was suspended for two playoff games for raising Tampa Bay Lightning striker Brandon Hagel.
With less than nine minutes left in the second phase of Florida's 4-2 win on Monday (April 28), Hegel played hockey in the Tampa Bay area near the board. Ekblad slid into him and hit him with his right forearm, touching Hagel's head, pushing Hagel down in the process. Ice bounced off the back of Hegel's head. He was kicked out of the game due to the attention of the concussion and did not return to the bench. Ekblad was not punished in the game.
from @nhlplayerssafetyslow motion on Eckbrad's forearm to Hegel's head.
This is a reverse angle we have never seen before and shows the Holocaust. Very clear 2-game suspension. pic.twitter.com/8dowbncxkj
– Frank Seravalli (@frank_seravalli) April 29, 2025
Earlier today, Tampa Bay head coach Jon Cooper said Hegel would not be playing Wednesday’s key game 5 games.
Ekblad missed the first two playoff games after being suspended for 20 games for violating the NHL and NHLPA's policy on performance-enhancing drugs.
This is his first suspension on the ice.
