Aleksander Barkov Will Take Warmups for Game 3 vs Lightning
SUNRISE, Fla. — Panthers captain Aleksander Barkov is a game-time decision for Saturday’s Game 3 against the Tampa Bay Lightning, according to Panthers head coach Paul Maurice.
Barkov will have to get through warmups before a decision is made, though it sounds like the team is optimistic he’ll play.
“He’s going to take warmups,”Maurice said. “If he feels good — if we think he’s good. He does have to get through it, push his heart rate up… we think he’s good.”
In the third period of Game 2 on Thursday, Barkov left the game after Lightning forward Brandon Hagel laid a late, high hit on him away from the puck.
Hagel was issued a one-game suspension for the hit and will miss Game 3.
Aside from Barkov status, the Panthers will only be making one lineup change as defenseman Aaron Ekblad will be returning to the lineup following a 20-game suspension.
Uvis Balinskis will be the defenseman who comes out for Ekblad.
After winning the first two games of the series on the road in Tampa, the Panthers will look to take a 3-0 series in their home playoff opener.
Puck drop for Game 3 is scheduled for 1 p.m. EST at Amerant Bank Arena in Sunrise, FL.
PANTHERS’ PROJECTED LINES
VERHAEGHE-BARKOV*-REINHART
SAMOSKEVICH-BENNETT-TKACHUK
LUOSTARINEN-LUNDELL-MARCHAND
BOQVIST-STURM-RODRIGUES
FORSLING-EKBLAD
MIKKOLA-JONES
KULIKOV-SCHMIDT
BOBROVSKY
VANECEK
*Game-Time decision
It’s great to hear the Panthers are optimistic about Barkov’s return! That hit from Hagel looked really concerning during the game. The one-game suspension seems fair given how late and high it was. Hopefully Barkov can get through warmups without issues – his presence makes such a huge difference for the team. Kind of reminds me of navigating tricky levels in Geometry Dash where timing and precision are everything, just like hockey plays. Thanks to the admin for keeping us updated on these important developments!
Hope Barkov gets through warmups and suits up, the Panthers definitely need their captain back!
Tough break for Barkov—those late, high hits always make me wince. I’ve had to “test it in warmups” after a minor concussion in men’s league, and your body tells you fast if you’re ready. Hope he clears it and feels right. In the meantime, I’ve been unwinding with Geometry Dash’s practice mode—quick bursts, keeps the reflexes sharp. Thanks to the admin for the updates!
I remember watching a tense playoff game a few years back where our key player got hurt but still pushed through to play the next match. It’s always inspiring to see the commitment and resilience athletes show, much like Aleksander Barkov preparing to take warmups despite the recent hit. Moments like these highlight the passion and determination that make hockey so thrilling to watch. If you’re looking for a fun way to unwind during intense game breaks, I’d suggest checking out Sprunki for some entertainment.
It’s always exciting to see key players like Barkov making a return, especially in crucial games like this. I remember attending a playoff game a couple of years ago, and the atmosphere was electric! Watching the players take warmups really sets the tone for the game. Speaking of excitement, if you’re looking for a fun way to unwind after the game, I highly recommend trying out Snow Rider 3D. It’s a fantastic way to capture that thrill even off the ice!
Fingers crossed that Barkov can play tonight! It’s tough to see a player of his caliber sidelined, especially during the playoffs. That hit in Game 2 looked pretty rough. Hopefully, he can get through warmups and feel confident enough to get back out there. The Panthers definitely need him in the lineup if they want to take a commanding lead in the series. It’s amazing how physical these games get, almost like watching a wild stampede out there. Makes me wonder if someone will eventually develop a crazy cattle 3d game based on NHL playoff hockey! Get well soon, Barkov!