Panthers Captain Barkov Eyes 'Soon' Return After Knee Surgery

Barkov has been out since September with a knee injury but is nearing a comeback as the Panthers chase a playoff spot.

Feb. 24, 2026 at 10:52pm

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Florida Panthers captain Aleksander Barkov, who has been sidelined since September due to knee surgery, says he is close to making his season debut. Barkov, a two-time Stanley Cup champion and Selke Trophy winner as the NHL's best defensive forward, has been skating for several weeks and is targeting a 'soon' return to help the injury-plagued Panthers make a push for the playoffs.

Why it matters

The Panthers have struggled with injuries all season, and Barkov's return would be a major boost as they try to overcome an eight-point deficit and secure a wild-card playoff spot in the Eastern Conference. As the team's captain and one of the league's elite two-way forwards, Barkov's presence could be the difference-maker for the defending champions.

The details

Barkov underwent surgery in September to repair two major ligaments in his right knee. He has been skating for several weeks and is nearing a return, though he did not provide an exact timeline. The 27-year-old center has been a longtime supporter of Joe DiMaggio Children's Hospital, recently making a seven-figure donation to the facility's sports medicine program.

  • Barkov was injured about 20 minutes into his first training camp practice in the fall.
  • The Panthers have 25 games left in the regular season.

The players

Aleksander Barkov

The Florida Panthers' captain and a two-time Stanley Cup champion and Selke Trophy winner as the NHL's best defensive forward.

Paul Maurice

The head coach of the Florida Panthers.

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What they’re saying

“I can make an argument that Barkov's the best player in the world. You may not agree with it. There are other guys who get more points, but two Selkes, two Stanley Cups ... we would be a little better team.”

— Paul Maurice, Head Coach

“I'm really happy where I am right now. I know the schedule. I know that I'm in good hands. We have great people working for the Panthers, surgeons and physical therapists and doctors, so I trust them and they will always make the right decision. I know, hopefully — hopefully — very soon I'll be back with the team.”

— Aleksander Barkov

What’s next

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The takeaway

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