It’s been a season full of ups and downs for Florida Panthers star Matthew Tkachuk. The 27-year-old experienced a career high representing Team USA at the 4 Nations Face-Off, only to suffer a groin injury during the tournament that’s kept him out for more than two months. While the injury wasn’t severe, it’s taken time to fully heal — but just in time for the Stanley Cup Playoffs, Tkachuk is on the verge of returning. With 22 goals and 35 assists this season, his gritty, relentless style of play makes him a cornerstone of the Panthers’ roster.
Former NHL player David Backes recently discussed Tkachuk’s importance and the Panthers’ playoff outlook on the Empty Netters podcast. According to Backes, Tkachuk’s presence is both vital and intimidating. He expressed doubts about the team’s defensive depth following recent roster changes, suggesting Florida’s blue line is a bit weaker than before.
Backes warned that while the Panthers may have enough energy to make it past the first round, they could struggle to go the distance and repeat last year’s deep playoff run. “They’re too tired to win the Cup again,” he said, “but not too tired to win a round.”
Despite that less-than-optimistic take, Panthers head coach Paul Maurice remains hopeful about Tkachuk’s recovery. “This week is huge for him,” Maurice said. “He’s not far off. If he’s not back for Game 1, it’ll be close — maybe just a day or two.” Maurice emphasized they wouldn’t rush him if there’s lingering soreness but confirmed Tkachuk’s return is imminent.
Tkachuk isn’t the only one the team is hoping to get back in time for the playoffs. Key players like Sam Bennett, Sasha Barkov, and Sam Reinhart have also missed recent action. Maurice highlighted the challenge of balancing recovery with a packed schedule, noting, “We’ve had five back-to-backs in the last month. We’re not resting players — we’re just trying to heal them.”
The Panthers have already clinched their playoff spot, but questions remain: Can they survive and thrive without Tkachuk at 100%? Or is he the key to a deep postseason run once again?
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