Panthers' Barkov helped off ice during practice, will be evaluated

Florida Panthers captain Aleksander Barkov needed help off the ice after sustaining an apparent leg injury during Thursday's practice.

Head coach Paul Maurice said Barkov will be evaluated, with Florida expecting an update on its leader Friday.

"It's beyond our control," Maurice said, per Jordan McPherson of the Miami Herald. "We have to learn to win hockey games without good players. If that's the adversity or the test that we face this year, then that's what we're going to do. I'm not a doctor, so whatever the report is won't affect how we handle the next days."

The Panthers start their regular season Oct. 7 against the Chicago Blackhawks. The two-time defending Stanley Cup champions are already without winger Matthew Tkachuk until at least December. He underwent surgery over the offseason to repair injuries sustained last season.

Barkov was limited to 67 games in 2024-25 but still managed 71 points and won his second consecutive Selke Trophy as the league's top defensive forward. He added 22 points in 23 playoff contests.