Ekblad to replace Johnson in All-Star Game

Calgary Flames' Johnny Gaudreau celebrates his goal during first period NHL hockey action against Edmonton Oilers in Calgary, Saturday, Dec. 27, 2014. (Jeff McIntosh/CP)

Sportsnet Staff January 23, 2015, 10:46 AM

Florida Panthers defenceman Aaron Ekblad is bumped up to the NHL All-Star Game from the rookie showcase to replace Colorado Avalanche defenceman Erik Johnson.

Aaron Ekblad and Johnny Gaudreau are being bumped up to the NHL all-star game from rookie showcase to replace Crosby/Johnson. #NHLAllStar

— Chris Johnston (@reporterchris) January 23, 2015

Keep in mind: A lot of NHL players were already on vacation yesterday. Makes sense to pull replacements from those already in Columbus.

— Chris Johnston (@reporterchris) January 23, 2015

Both Crosby and Johnson will miss the festivities due to lower-body injuries.

#Pens forward Sidney Crosby will miss the 2015 NHL All-Star Game due to a lower-body injury. Full details: http://t.co/IiuzGgyXzY

— Pittsburgh Penguins (@penguins) January 22, 2015

Erik Johnson will not participate in the NHL All-Star Game due to a lower body injury.

— x – Colorado Avalanche (@Avalanche) January 23, 2015

It was originally believed Johnny Gaudreau would also be promoted to replace the injured Sidney Crosby, but the game will go on one forward short instead.