Marchand targets return within six weeks after knee injury

Marchand initially feared the injury might end his season or career. He said the possibility of returning after a couple of months was a relief, and that his knee has improved and grown stronger during rehabilitation. He hopes to be back playing within six weeks, possibly sooner.

The 38-year-old was hurt late in the second period of a game against the Los Angeles Kings after being struck by a high stick and colliding with the goal post. His left knee twisted awkwardly, and teammates helped him off the ice without putting weight on the leg. He began on-ice rehabilitation within a few weeks.

Panthers captain Aleksander Barkov, also recovering from a knee injury, has been working out with Marchand. Barkov said the shared experience had given him a chance to get to know his teammate better. He, too, is nearing a return.

Marchand joined Florida in a March 2025 trade after 16 seasons with Boston and helped the Panthers win their second consecutive Stanley Cup that year. He has four seasons remaining on his contract and said he hopes to decide for himself when his playing career ends. Winning, he said, remains his motivation.

Marchand, Barkov and Panthers general manager Bill Zito also attended the unveiling of a JetBlue Airbus A320 decorated in the team’s colors. Named “Go Cats Go,” the plane made its first flight on November 5 to Boston, Marchand’s former home.