Florida Panthers defenseman Aaron Ekblad, serving a 20-game suspension for violating performance-enhancing substance policies, has been allowed to participate in team activities. This follows a decision from the NHL and NHL Players Association, which enables him to skate with teammates despite being inactive for games due to the suspension. His return coincides with the Panthers' upcoming Stanley Cup playoff games, during which he will still be sidelined. Teammates and coaches express excitement for his presence, noting the positive impact he has on team morale and performance.
Ekblad was not allowed to be around the team or have communication with them.
It's a little bit like you forget, right? Like you forget how big he is [at 6-4, 220 pounds].
We miss him here. I haven't seen him in while, so it was great to share the ice with him.
Panthers coach Paul Maurice said normally a suspended player is not able to return to team activities until 10 days prior to his suspension ending.
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