The 2025-26 NHL regular season begins on Oct. 7. Leading up to the season opener, NHL.com is identifying six things to watch for each team. Today, the Florida Panthers.

Last season: 47-31-4; third in Atlantic Division, won Stanley Cup

Coach: Paul Maurice (fourth season)

Biggest challenge

Injuries to captain Aleksander Barkov , who is sidelined indefinitely because of a right knee injury, and Matthew Tkachuk , who general manager Bill Zito said had surgery Aug. 22 to repair a torn adductor muscle and will be out until at least December, leaves the Panthers without two of their top forwards and invaluable team leaders. It will be impossible to replace them, but Florida will need to find a way to get by and fend off a potential Stanley Cup hangover and fatigue in its bid to become t

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