Concerning update for Panthers fans regarding Aleksander Barkov

Midway through the third period, with the Panthers up 2-1, Draisatl launched himself into Barkov along the boards, leaving his feet and catching Barkov in the jaw with his elbow. There was no call on the play initially, but after the officials huddled, Draisatl was given 2 minutes for roughing. Barkov did not return from the game and there was no update on his status from Panthers head coach Paul Maurice following the game.

Panthers reporter George Richards noted that Barkov was seen holding his jaw leaving the ice, leading to speculation that he suffered a broken jaw on the play.

Following the 4-1 loss, Draisatl was asked about his hit on Barkov to which he explained he didn't think it was dirty.

Dr. Harjas Grewal, who has experience in treating athletes as he worked at the 2019 IIHF World Junior Hockey Championships and 2022 U17 World Hockey Challenge, also commented on a post on "X" and noted that Barkov likely suffered a broken jaw and/or concussion, but noted that if it is a broken jaw, Barkov could seemingly play Game 3 with a full face shield. If it is a concussion, he expects the Panthers to list Barkov as 'day-to-day'.

With a couple of days off until Game 3 Thursday night, it will be interesting to see how quiet the Panthers are about Barkov's status and injury. There will also be a lot of eyes on the NHL's Department of Player Safety to see if there are any additional repercussions for Draisatl.