Panthers D Aaron Ekblad (undisclosed) likely out until playoffs

(Photo credit: Stephen R. Sylvanie-USA TODAY Sports)

Panthers defenseman Aaron Ekblad will likely miss the rest of the regular season with an undisclosed injury, but Florida coach Paul Maurice firmly believes the veteran will return for the playoff opener.

In the Panthers' 5-3 loss at Montreal on Tuesday, Ekblad -- the No. 1 overall pick in the 2014 draft -- played only 7:16 before leaving with an injury.

"I don't think