Leafs Catch Major Break vs. the Florida Panthers as Star Player Ruled Out of Lineup

As the Panthers and Maple Leafs face off in a divisional tilt that has a lot of implications on the standings and who will reign as champions of the Atlantic. It's going to be a hard fought battle, and the Maple Leafs are trying to keep riding the hot hand.

Florida however is running on a bit of a cold streak as of late, and already missing a few key contributors, it looks like they are down another. Right before the puck was scheduled to drop between the two teams, it was announced that Panthers captain Aleksander Barkov was not in the lineup.

It's a huge break for the Leafs as they try to keep the gap between them and Florida with only eight games left to go.

It's unknown exactly why Barkov is missing, though it's concerning if he misses any more time than tonight, and Florida may find themselves struggling to stay atop the division.

Arguably the NHL's best defensive forward, Toronto can't afford to take the foot off the gas and give Florida a run for their money. Barkov has consistently been able to hound the Leafs forwards while also being able to put the game away time and time again.

He has 34 career points in 38 games against the Maple Leafs, and has one goal and one assist against the team in their two meetings this season.

Barkov is enjoying yet another stellar offensive and defensive season. In 64 games this season, he has registered 67 points (19G, 48A) while adding a 86 hits, winning 56.9% of his face-offs and a minus-3 in 20:35 TOI.

His defense this season has taken a slight hit, however he is still extremely dangerous with or without the puck, so his absence can only mean good things for the Maple Leafs; at least for one game.

If there's any update on the status on Barkov and the extent of his injury, we will be sure to update you accordingly.