Champion skipper Aleksander Barkov is approaching team training fitness. PDO
Alexander Barkov may return to Florida Panthers practice soon, head coach Paul Maurice told the NHL website.
– Hopefully Barky will return to training in the next couple of weeks.
Barkov will initially return to training strength without contact.
Barkov’s knee broke during the season, five months ago. At that time, the recovery time was estimated to be 7–9 months.
– When something bad happens, you try to find something positive, Barkov said on the NHL’s website earlier this week.
– Maybe a long break will help me come back fresher, with a fresh mind and a fresh body.
Will the playoff train leave?
The situation of the Panthers, the reigning champion, is already getting really tough. The playoff line is eight points away, with 22–26 games remaining, depending on the team.
Moneypuck gives the Panthers a 15 percent chance for a playoff spot and an exactly one percent chance for the Stanley Cup.
The Panthers play Finnish time early Friday in Toronto and early Saturday in Buffalo.
Barkov is not on the trip, Maurice mentioned.
– We need a playoff mentality now.
