In the early stages of the Eastern Conference Final Game 2, everything seemed to be positively aligning for the Florida Panthers, until a hit from Sebastian Aho left star forward Sam Reinhart sidelined.

As the first period unfolded, Reinhart was maneuvering the puck into the Carolina Hurricanes zone when Aho made an attempt at a hip check. Aho’s contact inadvertently caught Reinhart’s left leg, resulting in him gliding into the boards.

Reinhart managed to skate back to the bench but displayed clear signs of discomfort before exiting to the locker room.

Sam Reinhart has gone to the dressing room following this hit from Sebastian Aho pic

Upon failing to return for the second period, the Panthers officially reported that Reinhart would miss the remainder of Game 2, which concluded in a decisive 5-0 victory.

Reinhart, who had seen action in 14 playoff games and scored four goals this postseason, has amassed 96 goals over the past two seasons, contributing 10 during last summer’s Stanley Cup run. His absence could significantly impact the Panthers’ offensive strategy as they pursue playoff success.