Articles / Panthers' injury woes continue as Mikkola exits game vs. Sabres

Panthers' injury woes continue as Mikkola exits game vs. Sabres

S
Sportsnet
Oct 18, 2025 3:36 PM

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The Florida Panthers faced yet another setback in their ongoing battle with injuries as defenseman Niko Mikkola exited the game against the Buffalo Sabres with an upper-body issue. Mikkola’s departure marked the latest in a string of health woes for the Panthers, who have seen key players sidelined this season, affecting their performance and potential playoff positioning.

As the Panthers look to navigate these challenges, the absence of Mikkola, known for his physical play and defensive contributions, is felt deeply. The team has already been without several of their regulars, making their quest for a strong finish to the season increasingly daunting. Head coach Paul Maurice expressed concern over the growing list of injuries, emphasizing the need for players to step up in these trying times.

Meanwhile, the Sabres took advantage of the Panthers' misfortunes, showcasing their depth and resilience. Players like Tage Thompson and Jeff Skinner continued to shine, leading the Sabres toward a convincing win. As the season progresses, the Panthers will need to regroup quickly and find ways to overcome these hurdles if they hope to remain competitive in the playoff hunt.