Florida Panthers’ Aaron Ekblad expected to need shoulder surgery and miss 2023-24 training camp

The Florida Panthers’ run to the 2022-23 Stanley Cup Final took a toll. After their defeat to the Vegas Golden Knights Tuesday, which clinched Vegas’ first championship in franchise history, the Panthers revealed a litany of serious injuries to their key players.

Among the wounded was No. 1 defenseman Aaron Ekblad, who was revealed by coach Paul Maurice to be dealing with a broken foot, two shoulder dislocations and multiple oblique tears. And it appears at least one of Ekblad’s injuries will have repercussions carrying into next season.

Speaking to reporters Thursday morning, Ekblad revealed that he expects to have shoulder surgery and likely won’t be ready for the start of training camp. He added he “soon after should be good to go,” so there’s at least a chance he doesn’t miss regular season games. As for his broken foot, he revealed Thursday that it occurred in Game 2 of the first round against the Boston Bruins but that he didn’t find out it was broken until he had imaging done between the second and third round.

Ekblad nevertheless fought through the pain and played in 20 of Florida’s 21 games in the postseason, averaging 23:57 of ice time while collecting two goals and eight points.

“It wasn’t easy, but it was worth it and it was fun,” he told reporters.

In the days to come, we’ll likely get more details about the injury recovery timelines for Ekblad’s teammates. Superstar Matthew Tkachuk has a fractured sternum and four broken ribs; defenseman Radko Gudas has a high-ankle sprain; and defenseman Brandon Montour also needs surgery for a shoulder injury.

Coach Paul Maurice expressed concern over the long-term impact of the Panthers’ many injuries when he spoke to media after the Game 5 loss Tuesday night.

“We’re going to have a hell of a time making the playoffs next year. That’s a fact. Because it’s hard,” he told reporters.