Panthers' Matthew Tkachuk spotted celebrating St. Patrick's Day

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Injured Panthers star Matthew Tkachuk spotted celebrating St. Patrick's Day

Originally posted on House of Hockey | By Tom Banks | Last updated Mar 19, 2025 2:05 PM ET

Matthew Tkachuk is currently out injured, and after pictures surfaced of him on St. Patrick's Day, some Panthers fans have grown concerned.

The Florida Panthers have been without Matthew Tkachuk since the 4 Nations Face-Off, and with less than a month to go in the regular season, they're hoping to get him back before the Stanley Cup Playoffs.

Those fans that are eagerly awaiting his return are more likely than not hoping that he's in the gym preparing for a return. Recently, however, photos emerged on social media of him partying on St. Patrick's Day.

While that's not always a bad thing, some fans have become concerned that he's not focused completely on a return. While he did the same thing a year ago at this time, many have called for him to read the room and not be doing this type of thing while he's on the shelf.

After Aaron Ekblad's suspension, however, reports surfaced that the Panthers could get Tkachuk back at some point in the regular season. And while some are concerned about the partying, there's a chance that this could also indicate a return is on the horizon.

In 52 games with the Panthers this season, Tkachuk has tallied 22 goals and 57 points, but unfortunately he's dealt with several injury issues that have kept him sidelined for too long. Fans have criticized his decision to play in the 4 Nations finale given his injury status at the time.

Ultimately, fans can sometimes be way too harsh on players and what they do in their down time, so while Tkachuk partying it up may not be a great look, as long as he's back to 100% in time for the Stanley Cup Playoffs, Panthers fans will get behind him as the team look to go back-to-back in 2025.

This article first appeared on House of Hockey and was syndicated with permission.

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