Photo credit: https://x.com/JamesonCoop
Matthew Tkachuk practiced in a no-contact jersey as the Florida Panthers moved closer to the Winter Classic.
Jameson Olive noted Thursday that Tkachuk, Cole Schwindt, and Noah Gregor were all in no-contact sweaters. He also pointed out it was Schwindt's first practice since breaking his arm on Nov. 17.
If you were hoping for a full Winter Classic dress rehearsal, this wasn't that. A no-contact jersey is the team saying «progress,» but also «not cleared,» and it matters with Friday's outdoor game right there.
Matthew Tkachuk no-contact jersey, Winter Classic looming
As a fan, I get why some people groan at the spectacle, but I also get why this kind of update makes your group chat light up.
The Panthers have been careful with Tkachuk after offseason surgery, and NHL.com still has no firm timeline for his return..
Still, Tkachuk is built for stages, and last season's 57 points in 52 games show why his presence changes everything. That line is backed up the same way on ESPN's season stats and reporting.
Schwindt being back on the ice is its own little win for a depth group that has taken hits. The Panthers previously confirmed the broken arm and projected a long absence, so seeing him in practice gear is a real step.
Gregor is the quieter name here, but he's the kind of straight-line forechecker coaches trust when games get weird. Florida signed him to a one-year, two-way deal earlier this season, and reps like this keep him in the mix.
Friday's Winter Classic at loanDepot park is set for 8 p.m., with the NHL building for about 35,300 fans. Whether you think outdoor games are dated or can't-miss, this practice skate added a little suspense to the main event.
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