Florida Panthers forward Matthew Tkachuk will miss the beginning of the 2025-26 NHL regular season after undergoing surgery. The 27-year-old winger, who struggled with injuries during the previous season, is recovering from procedures aimed at addressing recurring issues that sidelined him for a significant portion of the 2024-25 campaign, according to insider David Pagnotta.
Tkachuk’s Injury Struggles During the 2024-25 Season
Tkachuk’s injury problems began during the 2024-25 season when he was ruled out following the 4 Nations Face-Off tournament, where he played for Team USA. In the tournament final against Canada, which ended in a 3-2 overtime defeat, he logged just 6:47 of ice time. He did not appear again until Game 1 of the Panthers’ first-round playoff series against the Tampa Bay Lightning.
Despite competing through pain in the playoffs, Tkachuk later disclosed he was coping with a torn adductor muscle and a sports hernia. Initially uncertain about surgery during the offseason, he recently opted for it to support his recovery. The timeline remains uncertain, but Pagnotta indicates Tkachuk might not return until January 2026.
Can confirm Matthew Tkachuk underwent surgery a few weeks ago and will miss the start of the season. Timeline is unclear, but he could be out of action as long as sometime in January.— David Pagnotta, NHL insider
Impact and Performance Despite Injuries
Tkachuk still managed to contribute 23 points in 23 playoff games in the spring, often visibly hindered by his injuries. His effort was crucial as the Panthers captured the Stanley Cup title after defeating the Edmonton Oilers in the finals, where he scored three goals and totaled seven points across six games.
Selected seventh overall by the Calgary Flames in 2016, Tkachuk was traded to the Panthers in 2022, a move that significantly boosted Florida’s status in the league. Since his arrival, the Panthers have advanced to the Stanley Cup Final three times, falling to the Vegas Golden Knights in 2023 before winning back-to-back titles against Edmonton in 2024 and 2025.
Tkachuk’s Career Achievements and Team Outlook
Across his nine NHL seasons and 642 career games played between Calgary and Florida, Tkachuk has scored 240 goals and amassed 636 points. His playoff resume includes 84 points and 32 goals in 94 games, reflecting his consistent ability to perform under postseason pressure.
This offseason, the Panthers retained much of their championship core, securing long-term deals with Brad Marchand, Aaron Ekblad, and Sam Bennett. Adjustments included swapping defensemen Nate Schmidt for Jeff Petry and goaltender Vitek Vanecek for Daniil Tarasov. As Tkachuk recuperates, the team may pursue further roster moves, especially if he remains on long-term injured reserve at the start of the season.
Outlook for Tkachuk and the Panthers Moving Forward
Matthew Tkachuk’s surgery and uncertain recovery period add a challenge to Florida’s efforts to defend their Stanley Cup championship. His absence at the season’s start will test the team’s depth and adaptability, but his proven impact suggests he will remain a key figure once he returns. The Panthers’ ability to navigate this setback will likely influence their pursuit of a third consecutive Final appearance.