Panthers' Aleksander Barkov, Vladimir Tarasenko to play in Game 3

Field Level Media|published: Thu 13th June, 14:22 2024

NHL: Stanley Cup Playoffs-Tampa Bay Lightning at Florida Panthers

Apr 29, 2024; Sunrise, Florida, USA; Florida Panthers center Aleksander Barkov (16) and right wing Vladimir Tarasenko (10) celebrate advancing to the second round of the playoffs as head coach Paul Maurice looks on against the Tampa Bay Lightning in game five of the first round of the 2024 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Amerant Bank Arena. Mandatory Credit: Jim Rassol-USA TODAY Sports

Florida Panthers captain Aleksander Barkov and fellow forward Vladimir Tarasenko will play in Game 3 of the Stanley Cup Final against the host Edmonton Oilers on Thursday night.

Panthers coach Paul Maurice made the announcement Thursday morning.

Barkov received a high hit from Oilers forward Leon Draisaitl midway into the third period of Game 2 on Monday. Barkov sat out the final 9:28 of Florida's 4-1 victory in Sunrise, Fla.

The Panthers hold a 2-0 lead in the best-of-seven Stanley Cup Final.

Barkov, 28, was voted the Selke Trophy winner as the best defensive forward this season, marking the second time he has won the award. He also received the honor for the 2020-21 season.

Barkov recorded 80 points (23 goals, 57 assists) in 73 games during the regular season. He has 19 points (six goals, 13 assists) in 19 playoff games.

Tarasenko, who has seven points (three goals, four assists) in the postseason, has been dealing with an undisclosed injury.

Tarasenko totaled 55 points (23 goals, 32 assists) in 76 games this season split between the Ottawa Senators and Panthers.

A Stanley Cup champion with St. Louis, Tarasenko has 629 points (293 goals, 336 assists) in 751 games with the Blues (2012-23), New York Rangers (2023), Senators and Panthers.

--Field Level Media