Panthers’ Maurice ‘hopeful’ Barkov could play in Game 4

Florida Panthers manager Paul Maurice is assured Aleksander Barkov could be on the ice earlier than expected and help his teammates in the quest to win the Stanley Cup for the 1^st time in their history.

Paul Maurice says Aleksander Barkov was out for the bulk of Game 3 for precautionary reasons. “We’re very optimistic that he’ll return soon,” Maurice said — and yes, that could mean Game 4.

— Tim Reynolds (@ByTimReynolds) May 23, 2023

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The head coach shared that the captain’s problems are not anything too threatening, and he is very confident that he will see him play soon.

After that, today, the manager added that Aleksander is very close to being healthy and playing on Wednesday in Game 4.

Barkov left the ice in a Game 3 victory against Carolina in the 1^st period with lower-body problems after Jack Drury struck him hard.