Overview

• Brandon Hagel was suspended for one game by the NHL after delivering a late, forceful hit on Aleksander Barkov during Game 2 of the Panthers-Lightning playoff series.
• Barkov, the Panthers' captain and two-time Selke Trophy winner, exited Game 2 due to the hit but returned less than 48 hours later to play in Game 3.
• Despite Barkov's return and Aaron Ekblad's reinstatement from a PED suspension, the Panthers lost Game 3, cutting their series lead to 2-1.
• In Game 3, Barkov recorded no points, five shots, two hits, one blocked shot, and a minus-2 rating in 18:52 of ice time.
• Lightning coach Jon Cooper expressed frustration over Hagel's suspension, emphasizing Hagel's leadership role and importance to the team as they prepare for Game 4.