The Florida Panthers were dealt a shocking blow just days before the start of the 2025-26 NHL season. Team captain Aleksander Barkov suffered a serious injury during Thursday’s preseason game, leaving the Panthers and their fanbase anxiously awaiting news. The 30-year-old forward, a cornerstone of Florida’s roster, had posted 71 points last season and played a key role in the team’s back-to-back Stanley Cup playoff runs.
The injury occurred in front of a lively preseason crowd, with Brad Marchand and other veterans immediately rallying around their captain. While the full extent of the injury has yet to be determined, early reports suggested the Panthers were bracing for the worst.
NHL insider Elliotte Friedman reported: on “X” “Going to know more in the next 24–48 hours, but Panthers ar