NHL2 hours ago2 minute read

Florida Panthers Get Good News on Brad Marchand Leg Injury

Florida Panthers forward Brad Marchand will only miss a few weeks after injuring his left leg during Tuesday's win against the Kings.

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Marchand Sidelined but Avoids Worst Case Scenario

Florida Panthers forward Brad Marchand is expected to miss only a few weeks after injuring his left leg. The injury occurred during Tuesday's 2-1 victory over the Los Angeles Kings.

The incident happened late in the game, with just 52.6 seconds remaining on the clock. Marchand took a stick to the face from Kings defenseman Brandt Clarke. The impact caused him to twist around and collide with the right goal post, bending his left leg back awkwardly.

Marchand remained down on the ice for several minutes while being examined by an athletic trainer. Teammates Brady Tkachuk and Niko Mikkola eventually helped him to the bench. Marchand was unable to put any weight on his leg and was later helped to the dressing room.

Marchand had already missed the first two games of the season. The game against the Kings was the final stop on Florida's opening four game road trip.

Panthers Breathe Sigh of Relief

This injury came just five days after Panthers star center Aleksander Barkov hurt his left leg during an overtime loss at San Jose. Coach Paul Maurice announced Barkov will not need surgery but is expected to miss six to eight weeks.

The consecutive injuries brought back bad memories for the team. Florida won back to back Stanley Cups in 2024 and 2025, but missed the playoffs last season after injuries derailed both Barkov and Marchand.

Barkov admitted he feared the worst when he got hurt. "Last year was tough, so my first thought was, 'Do I have to go through that again?'" Barkov said. However, he received good news from the medical staff. "I promise I'll be back in the Panthers' uniform very soon," Barkov added.

The team was relieved enough to start teasing Barkov about his recovery time. Barkov said they told him he was taking his annual vacation, which he joked was fine with him. He plans to meet with the team to develop a return to play plan.

What it means for the next game

Minnesota Wild at Florida Panthers (NHL, Sat, 10 Oct): Florida Panthers win 52%, Minnesota Wild win 48%; projected score Florida Panthers 3, Minnesota Wild 3. Our safest pick: Wild +1.5.

Florida Panthers at Buffalo Sabres (NHL, Mon, 12 Oct): Buffalo Sabres win 64%, Florida Panthers win 36%; projected score Buffalo Sabres 4, Florida Panthers 3. Our safest pick: Sabres +1.