Matthew Tkachuk game 1 status unclear

TOI Sports Desk / TIMESOFINDIA.COM / Updated: Apr 22, 2025, 13:55 IST

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Matthew Tkachuk is set to participate in Tuesday's morning skate as the Florida Panthers evaluate his readiness for Game 1 against the Tampa Bay Lightning. Sidelined since early February with a lower-body injury, Tkachuk's recovery is being closely monitored.

Credit: Getty Image

The Florida Panthers are still weighing the return of star forward Matthew Tkachuk. For Game 1 of their playoff series against the Tampa Bay Lightning. Tkachuk, sidelined since early February. This will take part in the team’s morning skate on Tuesday. A final decision on his availability will follow shortly after.

Recovery monitored closely after practice

Tkachuk Returns to Practice!

Tkachuk took part in full practice Monday, marking his second on-ice session in three days. He completed all drills and remained on the ice throughout. However, Panthers staff continue to monitor his response to physical activity. Especially the effect of back-to-back skates.

The team is being cautious with the forward. He has been recovering from a lower-body injury. He last played during the 4 Nations Face-Off two months ago. Although he suited up for the final game of the event, he was clearly limited and didn’t play in the third period or overtime.

Panthers evaluating risk and timing

Matthew Tkachuk #19 of the Florida Panthers celebrates his goal with teammates against the Ottawa Senators

Credit: Getty Image

Tkachuk was placed on long-term injured reserve after his injury. As he missed the final 25 regular-season games. Despite the absence, he remained one of the team’s top contributors. Along with 22 goals, 35 assists, and 57 points. He was also second in power-play goals.
The timing of the playoff series may give the Panthers more room to decide. Game 2 of the series is set for Thursday, offering a short window for additional rest and evaluation. Team officials indicated they’ll consider waiting until then if it gives Tkachuk a better chance of being fully ready.
Read more: Brady Tkachuk Faces Hostile Crowd in Playoff Return

Final decision expected Tuesday

The plan is to assess how Tkachuk handles the morning skate before making a call. If he skates well and reports no issues, the medical and coaching staff may clear him to play Tuesday night. If not, Game 2 becomes the next target.
The Panthers open their first-round series on the road in Tampa Bay. With several playoff series already underway, Florida has taken a patient approach. That strategy could prove important as they look to make another deep postseason run.
For now, all eyes are on Tuesday morning. Tkachuk’s return could provide a huge boost, but the team isn’t rushing the process.

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TOI Sports Desk

The TOI Sports Desk excels in a myriad of roles that capture the essence of live sporting events and deliver compelling content to readers worldwide. From running live blogs for India and non-India cricket matches to global spectacles featuring Indian talents, like the Chess World Cup final featuring Praggnanandhaa and the Badminton World Championships semifinal featuring HS Prannoy, our live coverage extends to all mega sporting events. We extensively cover events like the Olympics, Asian Games, Cricket World Cups, FIFA World Cups, and more. The desk is also adept at writing comprehensive match reports and insightful post-match commentary, complemented by stats-based articles that provide an in-depth analysis of player performances and team dynamics. We track news wires for key stories, conduct exclusive player interviews in both text and video formats, and file content from print editions and reporters. We keep track of all viral stories, trending topics and produce our own copies on the subjects. We deliver accurate, engaging, and up-to-the-minute sports content, round the clock.

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