Florida Panthers forward Matthew Tkachuk will not be ready when the 2025-26 NHL season begins. The 27-year-old winger recently underwent surgery and is expected to miss at least the first two months of the schedule, possibly longer.
Panthers star Matthew Tkachuk sidelined after offseason surgery
Tkachuk revealed at the end of last season that he had been dealing with a torn adductor muscle and a sports hernia, injuries he picked up while representing Team USA in the 4 Nations Face-Off back in February. Those issues forced him to sit out the last 25 games of the regular season, though he returned for the playoffs and played a major role in Florida’s run to a second straight Stanley Cup.
Tkachuk’s injury and timeline
Despite the injuries, Tkachuk still produced 23 points in 23 postseason games, including seven in the Final against Edmonton. During the regular season, he recorded 57 points in just 52 games, showing once again why he is considered one of the league’s top forwards.
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What this means for Florida
Now heading into his 10th NHL season and his fourth with the Panthers, Tkachuk’s absence leaves a major hole in Florida’s lineup. His contract carries a $9.5 million cap hit, and if he is moved to long-term injured reserve, it would give the Panthers some breathing room as they prepare for training camp. According to PuckPedia, the team is currently $4.5 million over the salary cap.
Tkachuk was also one of the first players named to Team USA’s 2026 Olympic roster in June, but he will not be taking part in this week’s orientation camp in Michigan. His recovery timeline will determine whether he is ready to rejoin both the Panthers and the U.S. national team later this season.
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