Surprise: Matthew Tkachuk just jumped on the ice for Panthers practice, and the rumor is now confirmed

Tkachuk was on the ice for practice Sunday, a welcome sight after months of rehab. Florida has stayed competitive, but everyone knows what his bite adds when games get nasty.

Coach Paul Maurice said last week Tkachuk is «on track» to rejoin practices, and he has felt stronger after each skate. He had offseason surgery on Aug. 22, then started skating again in November.
LNH

The production bar is already set from last season, even with missed time. He put up 57 points in 52 regular-season games, then matched the moment with 23 points in 23 playoff games.
Sportsnet.ca

In this room, his return isn't just scoring, it's the swagger that makes everyone stand taller.

When he's right, Florida's forecheck gets heavier and exits get messier for opponents. He also changes the power play, because he wins net-front space and makes seam passes feel dangerous again.

The 28-year-old is signed through 2029-30 with a $9.5 million cap hit, so there's no reason to rush a single day. He was the No. 6 pick in 2016 by the Calgary Flames, and he's built his career on contact and consequences.

Maurice and Bill Zito have both leaned cautious with timelines, and that part matters more than the hype. With the Winter Classic coming Friday, his availability still reads as a wait-and-see story, not a guarantee.

The next milestone is simple, more full practices, more battle reps, and then the real green light. Panthers fans have been patient, and Sunday felt like the first time the finish line looked real.