Aleksander Barkov Speaks Out on Max Domi's Brutal Hit From Behind in Game 4

The conclusion of Florida and Toronto's fourth game of the second round ended with a lot of tension and animosity. Max Domi boarded Aleksander Barkov causing chaos, and leading to Matthew Tkachuk uttering some terrifying threats.

It was a game that was violent from start to finish, with repercussions felt on Florida's side given they will be without Evan Rodrigues for Game 5.

But in turning attention to Domi's hit from Game 4, Barkov spoke to media ahead of Wednesday's very important clash and had a tongue in cheek response to how things played out:

It was a clear shot at Domi's hit and the normally reserved and professional Barkov seemed to need to roast the Maple Leafs forward.

It's expected though, as it seems everyone is a bit on edge when it comes to Round Two. We've seen vicious elbows to the head, players injured, and a general and genuine hatred between both sides.

Expect not only Domi to be chased after tonight, but other players like William Nylander, Mitch Marner, Auston Matthews, John Tavares, and Matthew Knies are all potential targets.

Domi went after potentially the worst possible player you could go after, and with Florida already hellbent on making the Maple Leafs' lives miserable, the last thing you wanna do is make them angrier and put a bullseye on your stars.

Matthew Tkachuk literally signalled the end was near for Toronto and it's not something to be taken lightly. We've seen Sam Bennett elbow Anthony Stolarz out of the series; a former teammate.

So imagine what type of damage could be done if you aren't a former teammate? It's a genuine shock there hasn't been a ton of fights, and it feels like the recipe for a repeat of the 4 Nations debacle between Canada and the US.

Barkov for what it's worth, is doing exactly what he normally does. A defensive mastermind, he's held Toronto at bay while adding eight points in nine games (3G, 5A) and winning a blistering 59% of his face-offs.

It'll certainly be a wild and crazy affair between the Panthers and Maple Leafs on Wednesday, and with what we've already seen: What else could possibly happen?