Aleksander Barkov

Aleksander Barkov - Florida Panthers Captain

Aleksander Barkov is a Finnish professional ice hockey center and captain of the Florida Panthers in the NHL.

He was selected 2nd overall by the Panthers in the 2013 NHL Entry Draft.

Barkov is widely regarded as one of the best two-way forwards in the NHL.

Barkov played for Tappara in Finland's Liiga, making his professional debut at just 16 years old.

He quickly became one of the league's top young players, impressing scouts with his vision, playmaking, and defensive awareness.

Barkov debuted in the NHL during the 2013-14 season and became the youngest player since 1967 to score in his debut game.

He developed into a top-line center and was named the Panthers' captain in 2018.

In 2021, he won the Selke Trophy as the NHL's best defensive forward.

Barkov has represented Finland in multiple international tournaments, including the Olympics and World Championships.

He was part of Finland's silver medal-winning team at the 2016 IIHF World Championship.