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Aaron Ekblad

Aaron Ekblad is a Canadian professional ice hockey defenceman and alternate captain for the Florida Panthers of the National Hockey League (NHL).

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated September 11, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Aaron Ekblad is a Canadian professional ice hockey defenceman and alternate captain for the Florida Panthers of the National Hockey League (NHL). He was selected first overall in the 2014 NHL Entry Draft and won the Calder Memorial Trophy as the league’s top rookie in 2014–15. Ekblad has won Stanley Cup championships with Florida in 2024 and 2025.

Early life and junior career

Ekblad was born in Windsor, Ontario, and played junior hockey with the Barrie Colts in the Ontario Hockey League. He was selected first overall in the 2011 OHL draft and later became one of the league’s standout prospects.

NHL career

Florida selected Ekblad first overall in the 2014 NHL Entry Draft, and he debuted in the NHL that season. He quickly established himself on the Panthers’ defence and earned the Calder Memorial Trophy in his first season. NHL sources say he signed an eight-year contract extension with the Panthers on June 30, 2025.

Championships and role with Florida

Ekblad has served as an alternate captain for the Panthers and was part of Florida’s Stanley Cup-winning teams in 2024 and 2025. NHL team information also identifies him as one of the longest-tenured defencemen in franchise history.

International play

Ekblad has represented Canada in international competition. He was part of Canada’s gold-medal team at the 2015 IIHF World Championship.

Key facts

  • He plays for the Florida Panthers.
  • He was first overall in the 2014 NHL Draft.
  • Won Calder Memorial Trophy in 2015.
  • Won Stanley Cups in 2024 and 2025.
  • Signed eight-year contract extension in 2025.
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Canadian context

Ekblad is Canadian, born in Windsor, Ontario, and he represented Canada internationally, including at the 2015 IIHF World Championship.

Frequently asked questions

Who is Aaron Ekblad?
He is a Canadian professional ice hockey defenceman for the Florida Panthers in the NHL.
When was Aaron Ekblad born?
He was born on February 7, 1996.
What draft was Aaron Ekblad selected in?
He was selected first overall by Florida in the 2014 NHL Entry Draft.
What major award did Aaron Ekblad win as a rookie?
He won the Calder Memorial Trophy in 2015.
Has Aaron Ekblad won the Stanley Cup?
Yes. He won back-to-back Stanley Cups with the Panthers in 2024 and 2025.

References

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aaron_Ekblad
    Supports: Birth date, birthplace, nationality, position, NHL draft status, Calder Trophy, and Stanley Cup wins.
  2. NHL.com — https://www.nhl.com/panthers/player/aaron-ekblad-8477932
    Supports: Panthers team role, Stanley Cup wins, and eight-year contract signed on June 30, 2025.
  3. NHLPA — https://www.nhlpa.com/player/585/aaron-ekblad/
    Supports: Birthdate, birthplace, position, physical profile, team, and draft position.
  4. ESPN — https://www.espn.com/nhl/player/_/id/3114717/aaron-ekblad
    Supports: Active status, team, birthdate, birthplace, draft info, and position.
  5. The Hockey News — https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/florida-panthers/players/former-barrie-colts-star-aaron-ekblad-returns-to-ohl-alma-mater-with-stanley-cup-in-tow
    Supports: Barrie Colts junior career and Ontario Hockey League background.