Aaron Ekblad didn’t talk too much about the Florida Panthers’ coaching change, which came late Sunday night.
On Brian Campbell, though, Ekblad’s demeanor quickly became upbeat. For the 20-year-old defenseman who’s already playing in his third NHL season, the time he played with Campbell was invaluable.
“Playing with him was my ultimate learning experience,” said Ekblad, who will face his partner when the Panthers play the Blackhawks Tuesday night at the United Center. “I got to play every game with a player who not only supported me and made sure I wasn’t making too many mistakes, but taught the game in a way that was simple and easy.