Florida Panthers: Aleksander Barkov providing consistency to young group

Aleksander Barkov is having a heck of a season for the Florida Panthers to this point. Not only that, he is proving he can be a player of consistency. Last year, he recorded 35 goals and 61 assists. Totaling 96 points, that marked his second season in a row with at least 70 points. This year, he is on pace for another 70-point season.

With seven goals and 22 assists, he currently has 29 points on the year. There is a lot more beyond the individual numbers. Barkov is getting his points in bunches. Only Jonathan Huberdeau (30) has more points on the year

A scoring machine for the Florida Panthers

Barkov has recorded seven points in his last five games, beginning in Boston on November 12. Scoring two goals in that contest, he was an instrumental figure in the Panthers’ comeback win. Thursday night against Anaheim, he had another great game, recording two assists for two points. As a result, Barkov helped the Panthers secure another comeback win.

In 13 games in the month of October, he did not record a point four times. So far this month, he has been held scoreless only once.  In addition to his even-strength work, Barkov has been very effective on the power play. He has four goals on the year, and nine points in total. The four goals are good enough for third on the ream in that category.

It doesn’t matter what situation you put him in, he is going to be successful. On a young, resilient team like the Florida Panthers, his veteran experience is necessary. So far, he has accolades to prove it. He was named an All-Star in the 2018 season and won the Lady Byng Memorial Trophy as a result of his excellent sportsmanship.

Goals are just a part of the equation

Watching him play is fascinating. He moves well with and without the puck, and his  snap shot is deadly. Particularly when screened, goaltenders have an even more difficult time picking it up. He has precision with his shot and is able to “wow” with his stick handling-skills. It seems routine to Florida Panthers fans, but it’s truly fascinating to watch him do it in real-time.

Hopefully, he can keep up his high level of play. The Florida Panthers have been clawing their way to wins. Led by Barkov and others, they have been a treat to watch, and have put the rest of the National Hockey League on notice.