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Panthers strive for bounce back season after playoff absence

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 25, 2026, 6:21 PM

Last updated Jul 25, 2026

Panthers strive for bounce back season after playoff absence

Summary

The Florida Panthers aim to return to playoff contention for the 2026-27 NHL season following a missed playoff year. This comes after injuries hampered key players like Matthew Tkachuk and Aleksander Barkov. With the addition of Brady Tkachuk and a new goalie tandem of Jacob Markstrom and Akira Schmid, the Panthers seek to restore their status as Stanley Cup contenders. Critics express skepticism regarding the durability of the defense and the goaltending situation, as the previous season's performance was significantly affected by injuries. The team's resurgence hinges on overcoming last season's challenges and demonstrating playoff readiness.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

Status Watch

•Florida missed the playoffs last season due to injuries to key players.
•Team adds Brady Tkachuk to bolster its lineup.
•Jacob Markstrom and Akira Schmid replace Sergei Bobrovsky in net.
•Concerns remain about the team's defensive stability and goaltending efficacy.
•Florida is favored to win the Atlantic Division and Eastern Conference.

Latest Updates

6:21 PMYahoo Sports — Why Panthers Still Must Prove 2025-26 Was A One-Off Before Stanley Cup Expectations

What they're saying

"
The Florida Panthers have a fair excuse for why they missed the playoffs this past season, with long-term injuries to key players. But with a new-look goaltending tandem and another star in Brady Tkachuk, the Panthers must prove they're back to being a Stanley Cup favorite.
— Yahoo Sports

Related Teams & Leagues

Florida Panthers NHL Hockey