The Florida Panthers will face the Tampa Bay Lightning without defenseman Aaron Ekblad for the next two games due to a suspension following an elbowing incident against Brandon Hagel in Game 4. The NHL's Department of Player Safety issued the two-game suspension after Ekblad delivered a high hit, resulting in Hagel being removed from the game due to concussion concerns. Despite this, the Panthers managed to secure a victory, bringing their series lead to 3-1. Coach Paul Maurice is prepared for Ekblad's absence, while Lightning coach Jon Cooper confirmed Hagel will also miss the upcoming Game 5.