Brad Marchand Out Six Weeks as Panthers Face More Injury Woes

Marchand Out Six Weeks

The Florida Panthers are facing another major setback. Forward Brad Marchand is expected to miss about six weeks due to a left leg injury. Coach Paul Maurice shared the timeline on Friday.

This injury comes at a tough time for Florida. The timeline almost matches up with captain Aleksander Barkov, who is sidelined for six to eight weeks with his own left leg injury.

A Tough Blow in Los Angeles

Marchand did not play in the team's first two games of the season. He suffered the injury during a 2-1 win against the Los Angeles Kings on Tuesday, which was the final game of Florida's season opening four game road trip.

The injury happened with just 52.6 seconds remaining in the game. Kings defenseman Brandt Clarke hit Marchand in the face with a stick. This caused Marchand to twist and hit the right goal post, bending his left leg back awkwardly.

Marchand stayed down on the ice for several minutes while being looked at by a trainer. Teammates Brady Tkachuk and Niko Mikkola had to help him to the bench because he could not put any weight on his leg. He was then helped to the dressing room.

Road to Recovery

Florida won back to back Stanley Cup titles in 2024 and 2025. However, they missed the playoffs last season after injuries to Marchand, Barkov, and other players ruined their campaign.

There is some hope for Barkov. He does not need surgery. Barkov called his diagnosis "really good news" on Thursday. He planned to meet with the team on Friday to set up a plan to get back on the ice.

What it means for the next game

Minnesota Wild at Florida Panthers (NHL, Sat, 10 Oct): Florida Panthers win 51%, Minnesota Wild win 49%; projected score Florida Panthers 3, Minnesota Wild 3. Our safest pick: Wild +1.5. Our best value pick: Wild +1.5.

Florida Panthers at Buffalo Sabres (NHL, Mon, 12 Oct): Buffalo Sabres win 65%, Florida Panthers win 36%; projected score Buffalo Sabres 4, Florida Panthers 3. Our safest pick: Sabres +1.