Panthers captain Barkov injured, Larkin trade discussions heat up

Florida Panthers captain Aleksander Barkov left the game against San Jose due to a knee injury in the second period, marking the second game of his season. Coach Paul Maurice stated that the injury is unrelated to Barkov's previous ACL and MCL tear that sidelined him last year. With Barkov's situation uncertain, speculation arises about the potential trade of Dylan Larkin, who named the Panthers as one of three preferred destinations this summer. Larkin is currently sidelined from Detroit's first two games due to an upper-body injury. The Panthers face a cap challenge and may need to place Barkov on long-term injured reserve to accommodate Larkin's contract should a trade occur.

• 7:20 PMYahoo Sports — Panthers Need Barkov on LTIR to Fit Dylan Larkin