Florida Panthers winger Brad Marchand was forced to exit last night’s game against the St. Louis Blues with an undisclosed injury.
Coach Paul Maurice spoke to the media following the game, stating that Marchand would be looked at “tonight and tomorrow,” per Florida Hockey Now’s George Richards.
Marchand had skated in just 11:19 of ice time before exiting the game. The 37-year-old had played the first two periods but did not join the team when they took the ice for the third period.
Marchand had recently returned after missing six games following a collision with Toronto Maple Leafs winger Bobby McMann. He played four games in his return, scoring two goals and four points. This season, Marchand has notched 25 goals and 50 points in 45 games.
The Panthers now find themselves eight points back of the Boston Bruins for the second wild card spot, although they have played two fewer games than the Bruins. If Marchand is out long-term, it would greatly affect the Panthers’ chances of making the playoffs.
It would also affect his ability to play for Team Canada at the Olympics. The NHL pauses its schedule in a week, and the Panthers are set to play four more games.
More information will hopefully be provided when the Panthers practice and Maurice speaks to the media.
