HIGHLIGHTS
- Sam Reinhart injury update: Panthers star ruled out for Game 3 against Hurricanes with leg injury
- Panthers’ leading scorer posted 39 goals and 81 points this season
- Read below for full details on the Sam Reinhart injury update and Panthers’ lineup changes
The Florida Panthers will face a significant challenge as they defend their 2-0 series lead following the latest Sam Reinhart injury update.
Sam Reinhart has been ruled out for Game 3 of the Eastern Conference Final against the Carolina Hurricanes on Saturday night. Head coach Paul Maurice confirmed the news, listing Reinhart as day-to-day.
Reinhart exited Game 2 early after a hit from Sebastian Aho left him favoring his left leg. He didn’t return for the final two periods of Florida’s 5-0 victory.
The loss is massive for the defending champions. Reinhart topped the Panthers with 39 goals and 81 points during the regular season. He’s also contributed 11 points in 14 playoff games.
Maurice spoke plainly about Reinhart’s importance: “He’s critical on the power play, elite at penalty killing with Barkov, and draws the opponent’s top defenders.”
Jesper Boqvist will replace Reinhart in the lineup, likely playing alongside Aleksander Barkov on the top line.
“I haven’t played in a couple here,” Boqvist said. “I’ll try to get my legs moving early and keep it simple.”
The Panthers have dealt with key injuries this postseason, including Barkov, Sam Bennett, and Aaron Ekblad. However, filling Reinhart’s role presents a unique challenge.
Florida aims for a 3-0 series lead at home, where they’ve dominated. Carolina will counter with Pyotr Kochetkov in net after pulling Frederik Andersen in Game 2.
