Aaron Ekblad, defenseman for the Florida Panthers, is facing scrutiny following a hearing over a potential suspension for elbowing Tampa Bay Lightning forward Brandon Hagel in the head during Game 4 of their playoff series. The incident occurred late in the second period of the Panthers' 4-2 victory, resulting in Hagel being removed from the game due to concussion concerns. Despite not being penalized during the game, Ekblad's actions will be reviewed by the NHL Department of Player Safety.

In the same game, the Lightning's Hagel returned after serving a suspension for his own actions in an earlier game, which raises questions about player safety and discipline in the playoffs. The disciplinary decisions may have fantasy implications, especially for players like Ekblad and Hagel, who are key assets for their respective teams.