Insider Chris Johnston confirms Aleksander Barkov's status for Game 3

In Game 2 of the Stanley Cup Finals, the Florida Panthers ended the game with a win but concern for their captain. Aleksander Barkov was forced out of the game with an injury after being elbowed in the head by Leon Draisaitl.

After the game Paul Maurice spoke about the injury to his captain and said it was a wait and see type of thing. Yesterday we got our first major update after Aleksander Barkov returned to practice.

Now a report from insider Chris Johnston has confirmed that Aleksander Barkov will be in the lineup during Game 3 of the Stanley Cup Finals.

While the Florida Panthers have not released their official lines for the game expect Aleksander Barkov's name to be listed as the number one center. With an opportunity for the Panthers to put a stranglehold on the series having their captain and top center is fantastic news for the squad.

If there are more major lineup changes from either team heading into Game 3 we will pass them along to you.