The Florida Panthers were still without Roberto Luongo on Monday as they fell to the Columbus Blue Jackets 2-1.

With the loss, Florida is now 9-7-6 this season which is good for 24 points. The Panthers are currently sitting in ninth place in the Eastern Conference. Entering Monday's game, Florida had been on a two-game winning streak.

Luongo remained out with an arm injury that he suffered during a game on November 28th. The goalie is considered day-to-day and is expected to play in the second game of a back-to-back on Tuesday.

With Luongo on the shelf, a second straight start was given to Al Montoya. The backup goalie was once again strong but it was not enough for a win. Montoya stopped 21 of the 23 shots sent his way. Columbus scored once in the first period and then again in the final period with about ten minutes left.

Aaron Ekblad scored the goal for Florida in this game during a power play. The rookie's goal was his third of the season and was assisted on by Brad Boyes and Sean Bergenheim. The 18-year old's three goals have come in a month-long span after scoring none in October.

Shawn Thornton was scratched with an upper body injury while Colby Robak was once again a healthy scratch.

The Panthers will travel to Detroit for a game on Tuesday with the Red Wings at 7:30 p.m.