Aaron Ekblad
Alternate Captain / Defenseman
Miami Connection
As a star defenseman and alternate captain for the Florida Panthers, based in Sunrise near Miami, Aaron Ekblad has been central to the team's back-to-back Stanley Cup wins in 2024 and 2025, boosting hockey's popularity in South Florida. His leadership and on-ice performance have elevated the Panthers' profile in the Miami area, drawing fans and contributing to the franchise's growing regional success. Ekblad's long-term commitment to the team strengthens South Florida's NHL presence.
About
Born February 7, 1996, in Windsor, Ontario, Aaron Ekblad was granted exceptional player status and selected first overall in both the 2011 OHL draft by the Barrie Colts and the 2014 NHL Entry Draft by the Florida Panthers. He made an immediate impact in his NHL debut season of 2014-15, earning the Calder Memorial Trophy as the league's top rookie, an NHL All-Star selection, and setting Panthers records for rookie defenseman points, goals, and assists. Standing at 6'4" and 220 lbs, Ekblad is recognized as a two-way defenseman with strong passing, physical play, power-play quarterbacking, and excellent hockey sense. His junior achievements include OHL Rookie of the Year, First All-Rookie Team, Max Kaminsky Trophy as top defenseman, and leading OHL defensemen in goals. Ekblad has been a key leader for the Panthers as alternate captain, contributing to their Stanley Cup victories in 2024 and 2025.