Florida features prominently with Mikkola's extension, Barkov's injury cloud, and Tkachuk's high profile, shaping a defense-forward dynamic and fantasy relevance across the roster.

Tkachuk appears on the NHL 26 cover, elevating his profile and fantasy intrigue as the Panthers rely on his leadership and scoring versatility.

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

Mikkola's eight-year extension with Florida locks in a reliable right-shot blueliner who eats minutes, offers steady hits and blocks, and can contribute modestly on the PP, giving fantasy managers a stable defensive floor.

Panthers face Barov’s injury and Kachuk’s December absence, tilting expectations but not crushing them. The group’s championship DNA remains, and talent around the core keeps them in the conversation for a deep run if they weather the injuries and workload, maintaining fantasy relevance through depth and timely scoring.