NHL Player Safety Reaches its Verdict on Panthers Defenseman Aaron Ekblad After Illegal Hit

The Florida Panthers now enjoy a 3-1 series lead over the divisional foe Tampa Bay Lightning in the 2nd consecutive Battle of Florida postseason series.

They beat the Lightning 4-2 on Monday night at Amerant Bank Arena, scoring twice in 11 seconds to erase what was a 3-2 deficit late in the 3rd period.

Florida's 1st of their pair of goals in 11 seconds was scored by defenseman Aaron Ekblad, who ironically had a goal disallowed minutes earlier after the on-ice officials ruled that the play was offside.

Ekblad also drew controversy for his massive check on Tampa Bay forward Brandon Hagel, hitting him up high with his right forearm extended; Hagel was hurt on the play and departed the game, while Ekblad escaped being penalized.

However, it was announced on Tuesday that he would have a hearing with the NHL Department of Player Safety, who suspended Hagel earlier in the series for his late hit on Panthers captain Aleksander Barkov.

The ruling is in and Ekblad has been suspended for two games.

Ekblad recently returned to the Panthers' lineup after being suspended by the NHL for 20 games for a violation of the NHL/NHLPA performance-enhancing substance program.

After the hit, cameras panned to Lightning coach Jon Cooper on the Lightning bench; he was beyond heated at the officials for the non-penalty call.

The Lightning will attempt to keep their year alive on home ice when they face the Panthers in Game 5 at Amalie Arena.