The Florida Panthers could be getting a big boost to their lineup later this season as they continue their chase for a Stanley Cup three-peat.

Captain Aleksander Barkov has resumed skating recently after suffering a torn ACL and MCL in training camp, and was seen taking to the ice prior to Florida’s loss to the New York Rangers in the Winter Classic on Jan. 2 from Miami’s LoanDepot Park.

The 30-year-old centre was initially given a return timeline of seven-to-nine months following knee surgery in September, casting doubt on whether he would suit up for Florida over the course of the 2025-26 season.

The injury dealt a big blow to the Panthers, who have also been without Matthew Tkachuk to this point in the season after he underwent surgery in August to repair a torn adductor and sports hernia.

TSN Hockey Insider Chris Johnston joined TSN1050’s First Up on Tuesday morning, and revealed that Barkov’s chances to be back with Florida this year are “pretty high.”

“I think we’re going to see him play for the Panthers before they’ve played their last game this season, but it might still not come until playoff time,” Johnston said on Tuesday morning.

While Barkov’s return to the ice is surely a positive sign for Paul Maurice and the Panthers, Johnston added that a return to the lineup is not imminent.

“He’s started to skate a little bit, but if you’ve seen it, it’s in a tracksuit. He’s still got quite a bit to go, but also we’re only at the beginning of January,” Johnston said.

“I think the ultimate question for the Panthers is they’re going to need to know by March 6 when that return can be with a little more clarity , because it might impact what they are able to do at the trade deadline.”

Barkov, a native of Tampere, Finland, recorded 20 goals and 51 assists for 71 points last season, winning both the Selke and King Clancy Trophy. He also added 22 points during the playoffs to help Florida win a second Stanley Cup title in as many years.

Florida has played to a 22-17-3 record without Barkov and Tkachuk this season, and are currently just two points back of the final wild-card spot in the Eastern Conference.

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