Panthers' Barkov Expected To Miss 2025-26 After Surgery

Florida Panthers captain Aleksander Barkov underwent surgery on his right knee after suffering a serious injury when his leg buckled during the team’s first full training-camp practice in a non-contact drill that involved a collision with teammate Niko Mikkola. Team doctors and multiple outlets have since indicated Barkov is expected to miss the entire 2025–26 NHL season. Barkov is a three-time Selke Trophy winner, the Panthers’ captain and the franchise leader in goals, assists, points and games, and his absence removes a critical two-way presence from the back-to-back Stanley Cup champions. The loss compounds injuries already sidelining Matthew Tkachuk and Tomas Nosek and presents a major challenge to Florida’s bid for a three-peat. Management and analysts are weighing roster options and awaiting further medical details as the club charts a path forward.