Barkov's Status Uncertain for Panthers' Game 3 vs. Lightning

Florida Panthers captain Aleksander Barkov's status for Game 3 against the Tampa Bay Lightning remains uncertain after he sustained an injury from a controversial hit by Brandon Hagel in Game 2. Head coach Paul Maurice said Barkov will participate in pre-game warmups to determine if he is fit to play, expressing optimism but withholding a final decision. Hagel was suspended for one game by the NHL for the hit, which was penalized as interference since the puck was not near Barkov at the time. Barkov, a key two-way player and team leader, left Game 2 after the hit and did not return, though he had contributed significantly to the Panthers' postseason run. If Barkov cannot play, the Panthers have contingency plans based on previous line combinations from earlier absences. The Panthers currently lead the best-of-seven series 2-0.