Panthers Place Captain Barkov on LTIR With Lower-Body Injury
The Florida Panthers placed captain Aleksander Barkov on long-term injured reserve, ruling him out for at least 10 games and 24 days. The team is still determining the severity of the lower-body injury, though there is optimism it will not end his season. Barkov missed all of last season after tearing the ACL and MCL in his right knee, but coach Paul Maurice said this injury is unrelated.
Florida moved Barkov to LTIR on Saturday, two days after he was hurt in San Jose. He fell awkwardly on his left leg along the boards in the second period and immediately left for the dressing room. The earliest he can return is Oct. 27 at Winnipeg.
Coach Paul Maurice said the issue is not related to the right knee injury that sidelined Barkov for all of last season. There is hope the injury will not end his season. With Barkov out, Sam Bennett and Anton Lundell must handle more center duties.
Barkov's absence could affect the Panthers' on-ice performance and fan engagement in South Florida, while teammates may face added pressure and minutes. For NHL followers, especially in Finland, the uncertainty may heighten concern about a star's health and career longevity. The LTIR move may also shape roster and salary-cap decisions, indirectly influencing other players' opportunities. These effects remain speculative until the severity is clearer.