The Florida Panthers are gearing up for what should be a deep playoff run and they just got a huge boost ahead of Game 1 of their first-round series against the Washington Capitals. Star defenseman Aaron Ekblad, who has been on Injured Reserve since March, is set to be activated and return to the lineup for the series opener on Tuesday night, according to David Dwork.

Ekblad sustained a lower-body injury after a collision with teammate and Panthers captain Alexander Barkov during a matchup with the Anaheim Ducks. The injury cost Ekblad the final two months of the regular season, but he's been cleared to return for the playoffs and will look to play a big role in Florida's pursuit of a Stanley Cup.

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Getting Ekblad back will be crucial for the Panthers, especially considering they'll be up against one of the league's most lethal and experienced goalscorers in Alex Ovechkin. With Ekblad back leading the top defensive line, the Panthers will have an easier time containing Ovi and the rest of the Capitals' attack.

Ekblad was enjoying a sensational season before the injury forced him to miss time. Across 61 games, the 26-year-old recorded 15 goals and 42 assists, racking up 57 points and an impressive +/- of +38. He'll play a huge role for the Panthers in the first round, so getting him back in time for the series opener is a major boost for Florida.

Puck drop for Game 1 is scheduled for Tuesday, May 3 at 7:30 p.m. EST, at which point Ekblad and the rest of the Panthers will look to back up their prolific regular season with a strong showing against the Caps.