Winter Classic shock, Panthers defenseman seriously hurt

Sportsnet confirmed the update midgame, noting Jones «will not return.» It's a rough turn for a player who entered the night celebrating his 900th NHL game.

Jones has been a stabilizing force since joining Florida, logging top-pair minutes, special-teams work, and steadying a blue line still missing Aaron Ekblad. His 24 points through 39 games make him one of the Panthers' quiet engines.

The play unfolded fast. A redirected shot caught him up high, and he immediately left for the dressing room. No official medical details were released, but head coach Paul Maurice is expected to update the situation postgame.

For a night built around celebration - Miami's first-ever outdoor NHL game - it's a jarring scene. Fans went from roaring to hushed in seconds as Jones skated off with trainers.

It's not just a loss for Florida tonight. Jones is also slated to represent Team USA at the upcoming Milano Cortina Olympics, and any extended absence could shake both his Olympic hopes and the Panthers' playoff plans.

As a fan, you feel the weight of that walk down the tunnel. Jones was supposed to be the steady presence on a big stage, not the headline for the wrong reason.

Now, Florida waits and hopes the damage is minor. The Winter Classic was meant to showcase joy and Florida pride; instead, it delivered a reminder of how fast a season can turn.