Florida Panthers forward Brad Marchand made his season debut Sunday night against the Anaheim Ducks, ending a lengthy absence. The 38-year-old veteran missed 30 games last season after undergoing offseason surgery for a lower-body issue. Coach Paul Maurice confirmed Marchand's return before the game, inserting him into the third line alongside Brady Tkachuk and Sam Reinhart.
Marchand had 27 goals and 54 points in his first full season with Florida last year. His return comes as the team places captain Aleksander Barkov on long-term injured reserve due to a left leg injury. Barkov, who underwent an MRI this weekend, is expected to be sidelined for at least 10 games.
The Panthers remain optimistic his injury is not season-ending. Florida's hopes of a third consecutive Stanley Cup were derailed by injuries last year. Marchand, originally expected to miss the first month, skated in training camp but was not an active participant.
His activation provides a boost for the Panthers' offense early in the campaign.
Source: ESPN NHL · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing