The Florida Panthers are down bad heading into the 2025 season with both Matthew Tkachuk and Aleksander Barkov being out long-term with injuries, the latter expected to miss the entire season.
However, according to NHL insider Elliotte Friedman, the team might not be hopeless at the end of it all.
Appearing on the Daily Faceoff as a guest, the long-time NHL insider explained that the Panthers haven't counted out Barkov yet and while the outlook seems dire, they haven't declared him completely written off:
"Looking at Barkov last night, he sure looks like he is coming back this year or at least we can't write him off yet... They have not declared Barkov out for the year."
This is coupled with the fact that Barkov was seen accepting his 2024-25 Stanley Cup ring without the assistance of crutches, a mere 10 days after undergoing dual ACL and MCL surgery.
#FlaPanthers Captain Aleksander Barkov ditched his crutches and walked up to receive his second Stanley Cup ring tonight.
— Katie Engleson (@KatieEngleson) October 7, 2025
Barkov had ACL and MCL surgery 10 days ago. pic.twitter.com/fKYLxbJNph
Barkov tore both his ACL and MCL ligaments after awkwardly landing during a practice drill, needing help off the ice and the team fearing the worst. His expected timeline is roughly 7-9 months however there is the potential he is able to return to the ice at some point during the playoffs.
The captain will be sorely missed, as he's been nothing but spectacular for the Panthers since being drafted 2nd overall in 2013. In 804 games Barkov has 781 points (286 goals, 496 assists) while providing elite defense and being the league's greatest defensive forward with 3 Selke Trophies in five seasons.
For the Florida Panthers, they may be able to have their captain back in the fray at some point this season which is great news for them and a nightmare for the rest of the league who thought they had it easier this year.