Panthers captain Barkov out 6-8 weeks, no surgery needed

Aleksander Barkov will miss six to eight weeks, and for once the news out of Florida comes without a surgical scare.

Panthers head coach Paul Maurice confirmed Tuesday that his captain will rehab a lower-body injury rather than go under the knife, according to team reporter Jameson Olive. Maurice described the window as the best-case scenario: "That's our best window. Could be a little less, could be a little more."

Barkov was placed on long-term injured reserve after he fell awkwardly on his left leg against the San Jose Sharks. He exited Thursday's game and did not return.