Florida Panthers defenseman Niko Mikkola, who has been pivotal during the playoffs, left Game 3 against the Carolina Hurricanes due to a shoulder injury. Coach Paul Maurice expressed optimism regarding Mikkola's condition, highlighting his contributions both defensively and offensively; Mikkola scored twice in the game, marking his second career multi-goal game, contributing to the Panthers' 6-2 victory. They now lead the Eastern Conference final 3-0 and are close to reaching the Stanley Cup Final for the third year in a row, underscoring Mikkola's vital role in the team's success.
We think he's going to be OK," Panthers coach Paul Maurice said. "He was great today. He's been great the whole season and the whole playoffs.
Mikkola's last shift ended with 11:58 left in regulation; he crashed into the boards shoulder first, raising concerns about his health.
Mikkola has shown some offensive pop as of late, scoring twice on Saturday for just his second career multi-goal game.
The Panthers lead the best-of-7 series 3-0 and are one win away from advancing to the Stanley Cup Final for the third consecutive year.
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