Overview

• The Panthers announced Barkov underwent successful surgery Friday to repair ACL and MCL injuries, with Dr. John Uribe operating at Baptist Health Doctors Hospital and ongoing re-evaluations planned.
• The 7–9 month timetable points to Barkov likely missing the entire 2025–26 regular season, and reporting indicates he is also unlikely to play for Finland at the 2026 Olympics.
• Head coach Paul Maurice said there is no direct replacement for Barkov’s role, stressing a shared-response approach and the team’s need to adapt.
• Florida is already without star forward Matthew Tkachuk until at least December following adductor and sports hernia surgery, with depth center Thomas Nosek also sidelined long term.
• Analysts note Florida can open cap space on long-term injured reserve but must weigh midseason additions against new postseason cap-compliance rules.