Barkov undergoes knee surgery, clouding the Panthers top-line outlook and adding risk to fantasy projections until his return becomes clear.

Barkov’s status in Florida’s injury environment adds risk to the Panthers’ scoring core as the cap climbs and injury luck becomes a bigger factor.

Barkov’s knee surgery threatens a season-long absence, redefining Panthers’ scoring balance and top-line output in fantasy projections.

Barkov’s knee issue creates uncertainty for Panthers; Leafs games could skew more favorable for Toronto if Barkov sits, while Tkachuk’s status adds drama to Florida’s attack.

Barkov, Panthers captain, anchors leadership amid chaos. Though not highlighted for a specific action in this melee, his presence underscores Florida's steadiness as the team used a 7-0 win to reaffirm depth, while the spectacle tested leadership and temperament in a heated rivalry.