Panthers make official ruling on Barkov injury status at practice
This morning at Panthers' practice, any questions about a potential injury to Aleksander Barkov were answered when he was spotted as a full participant in line rushes.
Barkov was seriously shaken up by a dirty hit thrown by Leon Draisaitl in the final ten minutes of game 2. Draisaitl came in with speed, left his feet, and led with his hands into Barkov's head. Barkov was down on the ice for a few moments before leaving with the trainer, and did not return to the game.
Aleksander Barkov confirmed to be playing game 3 after Draisaitl hit
Yesterday afternoon, Panthers coach Paul Maurice spoke to the media about Barkov's status. Maurice sounded optimistic about his condition, but didn't confirm that he would be playing in game 3. Being a full participant in today's practice though is a clear sign that Barkov will play.
Sasha Barkov «wasn't worse» today and should be in «good shape» if he makes progress tomorrow, per Panthers coach Paul Maurice
Barkov left Game 2 after a hit to the head from Leon Draisaitl
- B/R Open Ice
Barkov left Game 2 after a hit to the head from Leon Draisaitl
- B/R Open Ice
For the quality of the series, it's great to hear that Barkov wasn't seriously injured and will be available for game 3. Barkov has been a key part in shutting down McDavid and Draisaitl from producing any offence at all in this series. So far, the Panthers' elite defence is reigning supreme over the NHL's best offence in the Oilers.
Source: David Dwork on X
Barkov full participant at practice
| POLL | ||
Do you think Barkov has been the best player in the Stanley Cup Final so far? | ||
| Yes, Barkov has been the best | 152 | 36.9 % |
| No, others have been better | 234 | 56.8 % |
| See Results | 26 | 6.3 % |
| List of polls | ||
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