Jim Rassol-Imagn Images

Panthers' Aleksander Barkov Injury Update Emerges on Tuesday

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Antonio Losada | Last updated Mar 10, 2026 11:43 AM ET

The Florida Panthers have spent the entire 2025-26 season without captain Aleksander Barkov after he tore both his ACL and MCL in his right knee on the first day of training camp.

The injury required surgery in late September and initially raised fears that Barkov could miss the full campaign. Barkov has been skating on his own since January while gradually increasing his workload.

Panthers head coach Paul Maurice addressed Barkov's situation on Feb. 26, revealing that the captain would rejoin practice in a limited capacity.

“Hopefully, in the next few weeks, Barky will join our group in a non-contact,” Maurice said.

General manager Bill Zito called for patience on Feb. 24 when talking about Barkov's comeback.

Florida Panthers center Aleksander Barkov (16) warms up before the game against the San Jose Sharks at SAP Center at San Jose.Robert Edwards-Imagn Images

“I would welcome him back to the Florida lineup the sooner the better as far as I am concerned,” Zito said. “But the medical diagnosis is pretty clear timing-wise. It’s one of those where it [may] look great, but you can’t cheat the system on that one. … When the doctors say he’s ready to play, he will be ready to play; I know that. Then he will play.”

Florida sits 11 points out of a playoff spot in the Eastern Conference with 19 games remaining, making long-term health the priority for the two-time Selke Trophy winner instead of rushing a comeback that might go for nothing.

On Tuesday morning, Panthers reporter Jameson Olive shared a significant update from the ice.

Looks like he's sticking around https://t.co/xb7g49Uzxp
— Jameson Olive (@JamesonCoop) March 10, 2026

“Barkov on the ice prior to practice in a yellow no-contact jersey. We’ll see if he sticks around to skate with the rest of the guys,” Olive reported on X.

Shortly after, Olive confirmed: “Looks like he’s sticking around ”

This development marks the first time Barkov has taken part in a full-team skate, albeit still in a non-contact jersey, since the injury. Barkov, meanwhile, has emphasized trust in the process since undergoing surgery.

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

Florida hosts the Detroit Red Wings on Tuesday at 7:00 p.m. ET.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: