Happy Friday, Rat Trick readers!
As we look to build up what has been a largely dormant site dedicated to the defending Stanley Cup Champions, today I am introducing a new weekly piece. I am a sucker for three things: hockey, animals, and wordplay. So, of course, I had to come up with a corny name for the piece–I’m a father of four, so corny is my wheelhouse.
So enjoy the first edition of The Rat Trick’s Panther Propaganda, a weekly roundup of news relating to your Florida Panthers (non-Panthers fans also welcome).
Injury Updates
The Cats were already dealing with more than their fair share of player absences before Wednesday’s loss to the Toronto Maple Leafs. It was somewhat shocking when team captain Aleksander Barkov was a scratch for the pivotal contest.
With the absence of Matthew Tkachuk (injury) and Aaron Ekblad (suspension), the timing of the captain’s injury is not ideal. It is a bit of a headscratcher as well. Barkov finished the prior night’s game against the Canadiens without apparent issue, so it is unclear when and where the injury occurred.
Coach Paul Maurice confirmed that Barkov is day-to-day with an upper-body injury. He offered little more beyond that, simply stating, “I don't think it's a long-term thing.” Despite that, NHL insider Pierre LeBrun is reporting that Barkov is doubtful for the team’s weekend games.
Per @PierreVLeBrun, Aleksander Barkov is “doubtful” for this weekend’s set of games in Ottawa and Detroit, but the injury is not considered serious. https://t.co/iqbY5uIct7
— Colby Guy (@ColbyDGuy) April 3, 2025
Forward Nico Sturm also missed Wednesday’s clash in Toronto but is expected to return by Saturday’s game at Ottawa. The team remains optimistic that Tkachuk will be ready to return by the start of the postseason. Fingers crossed.
Upcoming schedule
The Panthers will follow-up their recent back-to-back with yet another on Saturday and Sunday. They have a 2:00 PM matinee in Ottawa on Saturday, then make a short trip to Detroit to face the Red Wings on Sunday.
Fortunately, the week rounds out with a return to Sunrise. On Tuesday, they face the Leafs again, followed by the Red Wings on Thursday. Florida is 24-11-2 at Amerant Bank Arena this season. The Panthers will return home, and fans will be eager to see if both Barkov and Sturm can make their way back into the lineup.
Other news
Aside from the team’s recent skid and injury issues, there isn’t much more news of note for the team.
The Panthers have stumbled through a tough stretch, losing three straight games for the first time since late November. Not the best way to build momentum as the Stanley Cup Playoffs approach, just over two weeks away. As the team returns home, fans will be eager to see if both Barkov and Sturm can make their way back into the lineup.
As the playoffs loom, every player will be critical. The team’s resilience will be tested as they look to shake off this rough patch and regain their footing before entering the postseason. Regardless, there is no need for panic. If players heal on schedule, the Panthers should remain strong favorites to repeat as Stanley Cup champs.