Ekman-Larsson will travel back to Sweden today to be with his father, brother and other family members and will not return for the remainder of the season.

GLENDALE, ARIZONA --- Arizona Coyotes General Manager John Chayka announced today that the Club has granted defenseman Oliver Ekman-Larsson a leave of absence from the team following the death of his mother.

"Our thoughts and prayers are with Oliver and his family during this very difficult time," said Chayka. "Oliver has done a remarkable job dealing with this issue all season long and we commend him for the professionalism that he's demonstrated. It's important that he travels back to Sweden now to be with his family."

Ekman-Larsson's mother passed away in Sweden recently after a long battle with cancer.

"This has been a very difficult year for me personally," said Ekman-Larsson. "I'd like to thank the Coyotes organization and all of my teammates for their incredible support all season long. I'm sorry that I'll miss our last three games but family comes first."