Barkov Exits Game After Hit By Kucherov

Florida Panthers' captain Aleksander Barkov exited Friday's battle of Florida after a hit by Tampa Bay Lightning forward Nikita Kucherov.

Barkov changed direction at the last moment, but Kucherov continued through with the hit, sending Barkov head first into the boards. There was no call for boarding or any other infraction on the play.

An injury to Barkov could be devastating to Florida. While being one the league's premier defensive forwards, Barkov compiled 88 points in 67 games.

Kucherov has a history of questionable hits around the boards. He was suspended one game in the 2019 playoffs for boarding Columbus Blue Jackets' forward Markus Nutivaara.

Barkov attempted to stay on the bench following the hit, but eventually went back to the locker room. He temporarily returned to the game, but it is unclear at this time if there are any lasting effects from the hit.

MUST READ

28 minutes ago  |  By Graham Montgomery Connor Bedard's Struggles Prove Chicago Blackhawks are in Dire Need of a Coaching Change

1 hour ago  |  By Graham Montgomery NHL Analyst Believes Toronto Maple Leafs are Exploring Possible Reunion With Nazem Kadri

3 hours ago  |  By Graham Montgomery 800-Game NHL Veteran Nick Bonino Signs an Unexpected New Professional Contract

4 hours ago  |  By Graham Montgomery Jordan Reaves Calls Out Darnell Nurse After He Plays the Victim Following Hit From Brother Ryan

18 hours ago  |  By Graham Montgomery Two Maple Leafs Reporters Have Tense Altercation on Mitch Marner's Market Value

19 hours ago  |  By Tom Banks Nashville Predators Practice Takes a Nasty Turn as Players Fight On the Ice Due to Mounting Frustration

20 hours ago  |  By Tom Banks John Gibson Reportedly Willing to Waive No-Trade Clause for One Specific Team

22 hours ago  |  By Daniel Lucente Toronto Maple Leafs on the Verge of a Significant Forward Trade Per Top NHL Insider Elliotte Friedman

MORE STORIES