After starting in the Florida Panthers win over the Detroit Red Wings, Aleksander Barkov broke the record for most games in franchise history with a tally of 672.
Barkov Surpasses Huberdeau on the Most Games Played Record
Aleksander Barkov and Jonathan Huberdeau have been a dynamic duo since they got together at Sunrise. Both made an immediate impact on the franchise and went on a quest for every team record to be had. Despite being drafted in 2011, two years ahead of Sasha Barkov, Huberdeau debuted only a season before the Finnish superstar.
Lundell on what Barkov means to Finland:
“He’s huge. He’s probably one of the most famous hockey players, for sure. Every kid growing up is looking up to Barky — his shootout moves, highlight plays — including me growing up. He’s just like a ‘Wow!’ player." pic.twitter.com/CCWFIVwjoP
— Jameson Olive (@JamesonCoop) November 2, 2023
Almost every feat in the franchise’s record book has the name Huberdeau or Barkov written along. And ever since the Canadian was traded to the Calgary Flames in July 2022, Barkov has been taking over the ones left. Such was the case for the most games played record which Huberdeau held with 671 games. The feat was smashed when Sasha dressed up and started on the Cats 2-0 win over the Red Wings. Thus becoming the most-tenured player in franchise history.
One could never fully tell the Panthers history without mentioning both Huberdeau and Barkov, they symbolized the franchise and seemed an unbreakable duo. However, business is business and General Manager Bill Zito did just that as he sent off the former, as well as MacKenzie Weegar in exchange for the fan-favourite, Matthew Tkachuk. A decision that proved well worthy for the Cats.
Record Night at Motor City
Barkov was not the only Panther taking home a taped puck after the Cats win. As he collected his memorabilia puck for his most games played record Sergei Bobrovsky smiled and posed alongside him. ‘Bob’ started his 650th NHL game and he made the most out of it. The Russian goaltender sealed a shut-out, his first on the season, and did so in great fashion. Shutting the doors against one of the best teams in the NHL right now and facing dangerous chances all game long.
The Florida Panthers picked up their 10th consecutive victory over the Wings and finally had a big outing in the Penalty Kill. However, there is no rose without a thorn, and the Red Wings had a perfect percentage on the PK as well. Thus the Panthers power play failed to capitalize once again and ended 0-5 in the man-advantage. Steven Lorentz scored the game winning goal on an anything-but-flashy tally. It was his first on the season and he will gladly take it any way it comes. Anton Lundell sealed the win with an empty netter.
Missing Pieces Made up for With Heart and Grit
The Panthers have a bunch of key players with injuries or playing in the minors for acclimatization purposes. Aaron Ekblad, Brandon Montour, Sam Bennett (whose injury sustained against Boston is said to be week-to-week, although not as serious as the one he had come back from) and Spencer Knight are some prime examples of this. However, what the team may lack in flashy names or gifted stars they make up with hard-working, teeth-grinding players.
Maurice on Bennett:
“He’s not day to day. He’s going to be a little longer. We don’t think it’s as significant as the first [injury]. We’ll see how he feels. What happens in the first three days will tell us how long it’s going to be. That’s really it.” pic.twitter.com/uw7rtUZJLv
— Jameson Olive (@JamesonCoop) November 1, 2023
Preaching a next-man-up mentality where anybody on the roster may be called up and should rise to the occasion. The Panthers are off to a good start and with lots of positive takeaways looking deep into the season. The last stop on the road trip will be at the United Center where the Blackhawks shall be waiting. Expect a great matchup as Connor Bedard and Aleksander Barkov meet for the first time on centre ice. The game will have Barkov extend his most games record and his lead for when future team stars arise.
Main photo: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports
