Star NHL forward Matthew Tkachuk could miss months with a serious injury despite a heroic playoff run
A time when the Florida Panthers were celebrating their historic Stanley Cup win, things weren't as joyful behind the scenes for Matthew Tkachuk. The
NHL
star forward, who played every playoff game, reportedly did so while battling a completely torn adductor muscle and a sports hernia, both on the same side.
The 27-year-old had admitted during media rounds that his condition was severe. Head coach Paul Maurice even called his physical state a 'mess.' Now, according to insider Nick Kypreos, the damage might require corrective surgery, which could sideline Tkachuk until the Christmas break.
Surgery would mean a major blow to the Panthers' start
If surgery becomes unavoidable, Tkachuk could miss nearly half the regular season. That would be a massive loss for the Panthers, who heavily depend on his gritty two-way play, leadership, and scoring.
He tied for the team lead in postseason points this year, recording 23 in 23 games alongside Carter Verhaeghe and Sam Reinhart.
Long-term injured reserve
could offer cap relief
There might be one silver lining in this difficult situation. If Tkachuk is ruled out for an extended period, the Florida Panthers could place him on long-term injured reserve (LTIR). That would help them manage salary cap concerns at the start of the 2025–26 NHL season.
Still, that relief won't make up for his absence on the ice.
The Panthers' roster will need to step up in his place if they hope to stay competitive in the first few months.
Panthers betting on full recovery over short-term gain
While it's tempting to push for an early return, the organization understands that Matthew Tkachuk at 100 percent is far more valuable than a hobbled version early in the season. After back-to-back runs to the Stanley Cup Final, the Panthers know just how long and grueling an NHL campaign can be.
Matthew Tkachuk's off-season has taken an unexpected turn. From skating through brutal injuries in the playoffs to now facing months of recovery, this is a tough break for the Panther and a harsh reminder of what players often endure in pursuit of the Stanley Cup.
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