Florida Panthers forward Sam Reinhart will miss Game 3 of the Eastern Conference finals because of a lower-body injury. The Panthers currently hold a 2-0 series lead over the Carolina Hurricanes, with the next game scheduled in Sunrise. Reinhart was injured during Game 2 after a hit from Hurricanes’ center Sebastian Aho.
Reinhart’s Stellar Season and Injury Impact Leave Panthers Facing Key Player Loss
Reinhart was the Panthers’ top scorer during the regular season, amassing 81 points, including 39 goals. He is also a finalist for the Selke Trophy, recognizing the NHL’s best defensive forward. Recently, he secured a lucrative eight-year contract extension after scoring 57 goals in the 2023-24 season, highlighting his key role for the team.
Panthers Lose Top Scorer Sam Reinhart to Injury Ahead of Game 3 Against HurricanesReinhart’s injury occurred early in Game 2 when Aho made contact with his left knee during a puck carry into the offensive zone. Reinhart left the game with over 17 minutes remaining in the first period. Following the injury, Reinhart underwent tests and was subsequently ruled out by the Panthers’ coach, Paul Maurice, though he remains day-to-day.
Reinhart’s Key Role and the Team’s Confidence in Overcoming His Absence
The 29-year-old forward has contributed 11 points in 14 playoff games this postseason and is a critical part of Florida’s top line with captain Aleksander Barkov and Evan Rodrigues. Coach Maurice emphasized Reinhart’s significance to both the power play and penalty kill units. Jesper Boqvist will replace Reinhart in the lineup, though Boqvist has had limited ice time and production in the playoffs so far.
Despite Reinhart’s absence, Florida defenseman Aaron Ekblad expressed confidence in the team’s depth and experience in handling injuries. He acknowledged Reinhart’s irreplaceable talent but stressed the collective effort the Panthers rely on when key players are sidelined. The team’s strong core and ability to adapt will be crucial moving forward in the series.
