Florida Panthers forward Brad Marchand revealed his initial fears that a left knee injury suffered in early October could end his season or career. However, those concerns were quickly allayed as Marchand began on-ice rehab within weeks. He now hopes to return to game action within six weeks, expressing happiness that the injury was not career-ending.
Marchand was hurt when he took a high stick and crashed into a goal post in Los Angeles, bending his knee at an awkward angle. The 38-year-old, in his third season with Florida after 16 with the Boston Bruins, helped the Panthers win a second straight Stanley Cup last season. He is under contract for four more seasons.
Captain Aleksander Barkov, also recovering from a knee injury, has been working out with Marchand. Both players appeared at the unveiling of a team Airbus A320 painted in Panthers colors. Marchand signed the plane, named "Go Cats Go," which flew to Boston on Thursday.
Panthers GM Bill Zito said the plane inspires pride. Marchand embraces the rehab, hoping to dictate the end of his career rather than have an injury decide.
Source: ESPN NHL · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing