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Matthew Tkachuk Florida Panthers return feels closer as recovery milestones keep lining up.
Paul Maurice said Friday that Tkachuk is «on track» to rejoin the Panthers after offseason surgery, stressing there have been no setbacks. The 28-year-old hasn't played this season, but he's skating daily and feeling stronger, a meaningful step after months of controlled rehab.
Maurice explained the next phase involves doctors signing off before Tkachuk can practice with the team. Florida's light practice schedule complicates timelines, but the trend remains positive. Tkachuk has progressed from alternating on-ice and off-ice days to more consistent skating work.
This update is based on reporting by George Richards, who detailed the latest steps in Tkachuk's recovery and the Panthers' cautious approach.
The context matters. Tkachuk gutted through the playoffs last spring after missing the final 25 regular-season games, then tied for the team lead with 23 points in 23 postseason games to help Florida win a second straight Stanley Cup. Surgery followed on August 22 to repair a torn adductor and sports hernia.
Matthew Tkachuk recovery advances for Florida Panthers
Tkachuk echoed that progress on the Wingmen podcast, noting a major restriction was lifted this week. The Panthers previously kept him to one skating day followed by off-ice work. The next step, Maurice said earlier, is skating two straight days before taking one off.
What remains unclear is timing for game action. Florida's final practice before the holiday break is Monday, followed by a road game in Carolina on Tuesday. After the break, the Panthers play three home games between December 27 and 30 before hosting the New York Rangers in the Winter Classic on January 2. General manager Bill Zito said Wednesday that Tkachuk will play when he's ready, and Winter Classic status is still uncertain.
Florida's patience is shaped by circumstance. The Panthers are also without captain Aleksander Barkov and several long-term injured skaters, making careful workload management essential. The good news is belief. Tkachuk is progressing, confidence is growing, and the direction hasn't wavered.