FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. — The Florida Panthers might have their work cut out for them as they move into Game 4 of the Eastern Conference finals against the Carolina Hurricanes. Coach Paul Maurice confirmed that Sam Reinhart, Niko Mikkola, and A.J. Greer will be absent on Monday night. Each player is listed as day-to-day, pushing them to the sidelines for this crucial matchup.
Reinhart's absence marks his second missed game following an earlier injury in the series. A low hit from Carolina’s Sebastian Aho during Thursday’s Game 2 forced Reinhart out early, but Florida remains optimistic about his return. "I would expect, hopefully at some point in this series, they’ll be able to come back in and play," Maurice noted with cautious optimism.
Niko Mikkola, who was instrumental with two goals in Game 3, joins Reinhart and Greer on the bench. However, the Panthers are strategizing to fill the gaps. Jesper Boqvist, who kick-started Florida’s massive third-period comeback in Game 3, will stand in for Reinhart. Meanwhile, Nico Sturm and Uvis Balinskis will replace Greer and Mikkola respectively.
Currently leading the series 3-0, the Panthers have a golden opportunity to clinch their spot, but Monday’s game without key figures makes their campaign slightly heftier. In the case of a Carolina win, Game 5 would pivot back to Raleigh, North Carolina, on Wednesday.
Reinhart’s contributions are particularly missed. As last season’s hero with a clutch Game 7 winner in the Stanley Cup Final and leading this season with 43 goals, his role in Florida's offense is undeniable. Yet, Florida's determination remains firm, as does their hope to capitalize on their series lead despite these setbacks.
