Panthers Captain Returns From Injury

The Florida Panthers will get their captain back after an early-season injury.

Jun 24, 2024; Sunrise, Florida, USA; Florida Panthers forward Aleksander Barkov (16) awaits the start of play during the third period against the Edmonton Oilers in game seven of the 2024 Stanley Cup Final at Amerant Bank Arena. Mandatory Credit: Sam Navarro-Imagn Images / Sam Navarro-Imagn Images

The Florida Panthers announced some good news before they head to Finland for the NHL’s Global Series. According to Panthers head coach Paul Maurice, captain Aleksander Barkov is ready to return to the lineup after recovering from a lower-body injury.

In just the Panthers’ second game of the season, Barkov suffered a brutal-looking injury after crashing into the boards behind the net. Panthers fans held their collective breaths, but the injury didn’t keep him out for long.

Paul Maurice announces that Aleksander Barkov returns tonight

— Elliotte Friedman (@FriedgeHNIC) October 28, 2024

The Panthers were hopeful that Barkov would be able to return ahead of their trip to Europe, and with his return against the Buffalo Sabres, he’s back right on schedule.

In the opening two games of the season, Barkov picked up an assist, recorded two shots, and skated for just under 40 minutes of ice time.

The Panthers went 5-2-1 in Barkov’s absence and currently hold first place in the Atlantic Division with a 6-3-1 record (13 points). Forward Sam Reinhart has led the way with six goals and eight assists for 14 points, keeping the defending Stanley Cup champions above water.

Barkov will return to the lineup just in time to visit his native country of Finland for the NHL’s Global Series. The Panthers have a pair of games against the Dallas Stars in Tampere to kick off the month of November.

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