The road-trip begins on Sunday in Detroit, he will not play tomorrow, but could join the team at some point during the trip. The Panthers play Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday next week, so keep an eye on Barkov's status.
Barkov’s absence means more ice time for Nick Bjugstad, center Drew Shore and Jesse Winchester. Barkov, who is the Panthers leading scorer with 24, was injured on Tuesday, but is not expected to miss an extended period of time. If he can't go tonight, look for him to return on Sunday against Detroit.
Barkov was injured on Tuesday in Buffalo and is listed as day-to-day. Barkov's injury is not believed to be serious and he could play tomorrow, depending on his availability for the morning skate.
Coach Peter Horachek said the injury isn't considered serious adding that Barkov was lifted from the game for precautionary reasons. Barkov, the second-overall pick of the 2013 draft, leads the Panthers in points with 24 in 50 games. Barkov is day-to-day and should be in the lineup on Friday vs. Colorado.
Barkov might just crack the young Panthers' roster out of camp as they'll need a forward to fill Weiss' shoes. Don't expect him to reach his potential in year one but in a few years, the center should be a legitimate fantasy option.
