The Florida Panthers have taken control of the 2025 NHL Eastern Conference Final, leading the series 2-0 against the Carolina Hurricanes. Led by head coach Paul Maurice and stars Matthew Tkachuk and Brad Marchand, Florida has shown clear dominance in the first two games played in Raleigh, including a commanding 5-0 victory in Game 2. However, not all news is good, as they’ll be without a key piece for Game 3.
Standouts like Tkachuk, Marchand, and even Sam Bennett have stepped up during this playoff run. The Panthers have managed to overcome injuries throughout the season, showcasing their roster depth. Still, losing a player in the postseason is always a blow.
Sam Reinhart left the ice in Game 2 after falling due to contact with Hurricanes’ forward Sebastian Aho. Although he tried to return, the 29-year-old forward was forced to exit in the first period, raising concerns for Florida. Head coach Paul Maurice had promised an update, and he has now provided one.
Will Reinhart play in Game 3 vs the Canes?
Reinhart will not play in Game 3, and his availability for the rest of the series remains uncertain due to a lower-body injury. Maurice said the forward is considered “day-to-day” and that no decision has been made about his return.
Sam Reinhart of the Florida Panthers
Forward Jesper Boqvist will replace Reinhart in the starting lineup for Game 3. The Hurricanes are well aware of how significant this absence is and will look to capitalize on it to get back in the series.
see also
Panthers captain Aleksander Barkov sends clear message on Matthew Tkachuk’s performance in Game 2 vs Hurricanes
Reinhart’s impact on the Panthers
Sam Reinhart led Florida in regular-season scoring with 81 points and has remained a key contributor during the playoffs, marking 11 points in 14 games before being injured in Game 2. Now the Panthers will have to wait and see how soon he can return.
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