Panthers’ Barkov doesn’t return to Game 2 after taking high hit from Draisaitl

As the Florida Panthers held off the Edmonton Oilers in the third period to win Game 2 of the Stanley Cup Final, they did so without their captain.

Aleksander Barkov left the game after taking a hit from Leon Draisaitl along the boards in the Panthers’ end with 9:28 remaining in the final frame, immediately going down to the ice before being helped to the locker room by training staff.

Draisaitl appeared to catch Barkov up high with an elbow and was assessed a minor penalty for roughing.

Barkov didn’t return to the game. He ended up with 17:47 of ice time and registered two shots and one block before exiting.

However, the Panthers did score on the ensuing power play, when Evan Rodrigues buried his second goal of the game, giving Florida a 3-1 lead.

The 28-year-old Barkov had 80 points in 73 regular-season games for Florida this year. He has added 19 points and six goals through 19 post-season games.