Barkov Undergoes ACL/MCL Surgery, Likely Misses Season

Aleksander Barkov suffered tears to his right ACL and MCL during a non-contact drill at the Panthers' first full training-camp skate and underwent successful surgery Friday by Dr. John Uribe at Baptist Health Doctors Hospital. The team expects a 7–9 month recovery, making it likely Barkov will miss most or all of the 2025–26 regular season and ruling him out of the 2026 Milan–Cortina Olympics. Barkov is a multi-time Selke Trophy winner, led Florida in assists last season and is the franchise leader in goals, assists and points, so his absence is a major blow to the two-time defending Stanley Cup champions. Florida is already without Matthew Tkachuk (out until at least December) and Tomas Nosek (long-term), increasing the likelihood of roster moves, use of long-term injured reserve and GM Bill Zito seeking temporary reinforcements. The club said it will re-evaluate Barkov on an ongoing basis and is planning for the season without its captain.