Articles / Panthers Announce Aleksander Barkov Will Miss 7-9 Months With ACL And MCL Injuries

Panthers Announce Aleksander Barkov Will Miss 7-9 Months With ACL And MCL Injuries

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Hockey News
Sep 26, 2025 11:23 PM

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The Florida Panthers announced that captain Aleksander Barkov will be sidelined for an extended period due to significant knee injuries. Barkov suffered both ACL and MCL tears, which are expected to keep him off the ice for 7-9 months. This news comes as a considerable blow to the Panthers, who rely heavily on Barkov's leadership and offensive skills.

Barkov has been a cornerstone of the Panthers' lineup since being drafted second overall in 2013. His skill set as a two-way forward makes him not only a key player offensively but also bolsters the defensive capabilities of the team. The Panthers will need to fill the void left by their star player, especially with the playoffs approaching.

Head Coach Paul Maurice expressed deep concern about the impact of Barkov's absence on the team's performance. He emphasized the necessity for other players to step up and assume greater responsibilities during this challenging time. The Panthers are currently in a tight race for playoff positioning, making Barkov's recovery a priority for the team's future.

Fans remain hopeful that Barkov will return stronger from his rehabilitation. In the meantime, the organization is considering adjustments to their strategy to navigate the season without their captain, keeping an eye on potential trades or call-ups from the AHL to strengthen their roster.

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