FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. - The Florida Panthers' star center and captain, Aleksander Barkov, is unsure if he will take the ice for Game 3 of the Stanley Cup Final against the Edmonton Oilers on Thursday. Barkov suffered an injury in Game 2 after receiving a high hit from Oilers forward Leon Draisaitl.

During the third period of the Panthers' 4-1 victory on Monday, Barkov was forced to leave the game after the collision. Although Draisaitl was penalized with a minor penalty for roughing, the extent of Barkov's injuries remained unclear.

However, there is some positive news regarding Barkov's condition. According to Florida coach Paul Maurice, Barkov has been feeling better since the incident and if his progress continues, he could be available for Game 3. The Panthers currently hold a 2-0 lead in the best-of-7 series.

Maurice expressed optimism about Barkov's availability for the upcoming game but refrained from confirming whether he will travel with the team to Edmonton. The final assessment of Barkov's status will be made on Wednesday, taking into account his continued progress and overall strength.

The hit on Barkov has generated discussions surrounding player safety and penalties in the game. However, Maurice chose not to delve into the specifics of Draisaitl's hit, emphasizing the importance of leaving the issue in the hands of the league for evaluation.

Draisaitl himself downplayed the incident, stating that the play was not fueled by frustration and that it was simply a hit. He denied any malicious intent to injure Barkov.

Barkov's role in the playoffs has been crucial, especially defensively, as he has helped shut down the Oilers' top offensive threats, Connor McDavid and Draisaitl. In Game 2, McDavid managed only one assist and three shots on goal, while Draisaitl was held without a point on two shots.

The Panthers' captain also contributes offensively, with 19 points in the postseason, tying him with Matthew Tkachuk for the team lead. Losing Barkov's presence on the ice would undoubtedly be a blow for the Panthers.

Florida has dealt with injuries throughout the playoffs, including Barkov's absence in the regular season due to a lower-body injury. However, the team has shown resilience and adaptability, with players like Anton Lundell stepping up to fill the void.

As the Panthers await a final assessment of Barkov's condition, they remain optimistic about his return. Lundell expressed the team's support and desire to see their captain back on the ice, even stronger.

The Panthers have faced their fair share of injuries in previous playoff runs, but have been relatively healthier this year compared to their Cup Final appearance last season. The team hopes to maintain its health and momentum as they aim to secure their first-ever Stanley Cup title.

NHL.com Editor-in-Chief Bill Price contributed to this report.

[Date: Game 3 scheduled for Thursday, time mentioned: 8 p.m. ET]
[Numbers mentioned: Barkov's Selke Trophy wins, points by McDavid and Draisaitl in playoffs, Barkov's points and ice time, Panthers' lead in the series last season]