The Florida Panthers needed some good news after yesterday’s report that Aleksander Barkov suffered a broken hand.
On Monday, they got some.
Barkov’s injury won’t require surgery, per the Miami Herald, meaning he’ll be able to return to the lineup once he’s got the strength to properly grip his stick (estimated 2-4 weeks).
The Finnish center was off to a terrific start this year, playing on Florida’s top scoring line between Jonathan Huberdeau and Jaromir Jagr.
With Barkov out, the Panthers will turn to another good youngster -- Nick Bjugstad -- as their No. 1 pivot.
That upward shuffle means additional opportunities for depth centers Vincent Trocheck, David Bolland and Derek McKenzie.
Per the Herald, here’s what the new lines could look like:
New lines for #FlaPanthers? ... Bolland Cs 2nd line Smith/Jokinen; Pirri Cs Trocheck/Howden; Mac w/ Brickley/ Thornton
— George Richards (@GeorgeRichards) October 26, 2015