Florida Panthers left wing Matthew Tkachuk. Sam Navarro-Imagn Images

Concerning update on Matthew Tkachuk emerges ahead of Stanley Cup playoffs

Originally posted on Blade of Steel | By Tom Banks | Last updated Apr 11, 2025 5:12 PM ET

Matthew Tkachuk has been out since the Four Nations Face-Off, and now it appears his return for the Florida Panthers in the Stanley Cup playoffs could be in jeopardy.

The Florida Panthers have been struggling as of late with their injuries and suspensions, but ahead of the Stanley Cup Playoffs, they're expected to get back to 100%.

Aaron Ekblad will return in the first series, and the team is hoping that Matthew Tkachuk will be back for that first series as well, but for now, the latest update is that he is "still a ways away."

That's not a good sign for Tkachuk, with head coach Paul Maurice noting that the starting date of the Stanley Cup playoffs could have an impact on Tkachuk's potential return. However, No. 19 has fought hard through plenty of injuries before.

The Panthers are also without Sam Bennett, who will be out for the remainder of the regular season, but if they can get healthy, this is still arguably the best team in the NHL.

As of a week ago, Tkachuk has been skating before practice, which means there has certainly been progress, but it's not gauranteed that he'll be back for Game 1.

If the Panthers go into a series with the Tampa Bay Lightning or Toronto Maple Leafs at less than 100%, it's certainly going to be a tough battle. But if they can get there by the second or third game, this remains a team that could be competing for the Cup once again in 2025.

This article first appeared on Blade of Steel and was syndicated with permission.

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