It's great to see Ekholm stick up for his teammates, and even recognize that he shouldn't have to. Any criticism of McDavid and Draisaitl not producing in the playoffs is simply insane when they've been the best playoff players of this generation in the NHL. Sure, they didn't score in Game 7, but they dragged the team to that point and were on their last legs with injuries. They'll be back in that same situation soon competing for a Cup, and they'll have the opportunity to prove again why they're the greatest players in the league.
Not only that, Ekholm recognized the hard truth that the Panthers were simply the better when it mattered in the crunch time. It was a hard fought battle, neither team made many mistakes, but the Panthers capitalized on one more chance and that's all that matters. It's a tough lesson, but the Oilers will be more experienced, more motivated, and better than ever when competing for the Cup next year.