Aaron Ekblad isn't going anywhere.

After the Florida Panthers edged the Philadelphia Flyers 2-1 Saturday night, head coach Gerard Gallant announced the first overall pick would be staying in Florida for the rest of the season.

Ekblad, 18, was still eligible to return to the OHL's Barrie Colts, but has played well enough to earn a full-time spot on the Panthers' roster. The defenceman has one goal and two assists over nine games this season.

Reaching the 10-game mark will burn the first year of his entry level contract.