Panthers' Aaron Ekblad: Out with sore neck Thursday

Ekblad is dealing with a sore neck that will keep him from playing Thursday night against the Coyotes, George Richards of the Miami Herald reports.

Analysis:

The neck issue is reportedly not linked to his recent concussion, which is good news, as that ailment just kept Ekblad out of the lineup for four contests. Florida needs an absolute miracle to make the playoffs, so the priority will be ensuring that Ekblad is back at 100 percent before he suits up again.