Aleksander Barkov's trick had the NHL star gasping: "The craziest thing I've ever seen"

The significance of Aleksander Barkov, the captain of the Lions’ World Championship gold team, is visible on the ice every night for his team, the Florida Panthers.

According to the Panthers’ other leading player, star forward Matthew Tkachuk, Barkov has been the single biggest reason for the Panthers’ success in recent years. The Panthers celebrated Stanley Cup victories under the leadership of the duo in the past two seasons.

The American star highlighted Barkov alongside his brother Brady Tkachuk in his hosted Wingmen podcast.

– He is one of the best teammates I’ve ever had because of all the things he does and the kind of person he is, Tkachuk said in the podcast.

According to Tkachuk, Barkov’s greatness is not only reflected in points or the awards he has won, but especially in the small details that the average viewer might not even notice.

One situation has particularly stuck in the star forward’s mind.

– It was the sickest thing I’ve ever seen in my life. He tapped the opponent to the left side with his long stick. As a result, the player leaned left, thinking Barkov was coming from that side. When he then moved the puck to his right, Barkov lifted his stick and grabbed the puck, Tkachuk recalled, shaking his head.

Barkov’s exceptional puck-handling skills continue to amaze Tkachuk day after day.

– The most incredible thing is how he uses perhaps the best hands in the NHL despite playing with such a long stick. I’ve learned a lot from him as a leader and as a player. He has made me a better player, Tkachuk praised the Finnish star.

Barkov’s value to the Panthers was also starkly evident this past season. Florida struggled without their captain and fell far from a playoff spot during his absences.

The impact of the Finnish captain extends far beyond points. Tkachuk’s comments reflect a player who is equally respected by teammates and opponents alike.