Panthers Coach Makes Huge Matthew Tkachuk Announcement Ahead of Playoffs

According to ESPN Bet, the Florida Panthers are tied with the Carolina Hurricanes as co-favorites to win the Stanley Cup, both with +700 odds. Their championship prospects could soon get a major lift.

Despite finishing third in the Atlantic Division—setting up a first-round playoff clash with the second-seeded Tampa Bay Lightning, who edged them by four points in the standings—the Panthers may be getting a key reinforcement. 

Star forward Matthew Tkachuk, who missed the final 25 games of the regular season with a lower-body injury sustained in the 4 Nations Face-Off championship, is close to returning.

Panthers head coach Paul Maurice revealed on WQAM’s Joe Rose Show that Tkachuk’s recovery is progressing well. 

"This week is crucial for him," Maurice said. "He’s not far off—if he’s not ready for Game 1, he’s very close. We’re not talking about weeks here; it might just be a matter of days." 

The coach explained that Tkachuk will ramp up to full-intensity skates later in the week, with his readiness depending on how his body responds. 

"If there’s no soreness, he’s good to go. If there’s any lingering discomfort, we might wait another day or two."

Tkachuk himself teased a possible Game 1 return during an appearance on FanDuel TV’s Up & Adams, joking, "I’d get in trouble if I gave a date." He added, "The last few days on the ice have been really good. I’ve only had a couple of serious skates, so I’m aiming to peak around Game 1. I’m excited."

Matthew Tkachuk back for Game 1? Sure sounds like it…@heykayadams | @TKACHUKycheese_ pic.twitter.com/CJw8zbaliY

— Up & Adams (@UpAndAdamsShow) April 16, 2025

Despite playing just 52 games this season, Tkachuk ranked third on the Panthers in goals (22), points (57), and power-play goals (11), while his 1.10 points-per-game average placed him 19th in the NHL. 

His return could be a game-changer for Florida’s playoff push.

Image - Robert Edwards-Imagn