Possible rephrasing: Matthew Tkachuk might be out for the initial stage of the upcoming season.
Florida Panthers' Star Matthew Tkachuk Ponders Surgery Decision
Matthew Tkachuk, the forward for the Florida Panthers, is weighing the decision to undergo surgery for injuries sustained during the World Cup of Hockey earlier this year. The potential surgery could sideline him for three to five months, potentially missing the start of the 2025–26 NHL season and ruling him out of key events like the 2026 Winter Olympics.
Tkachuk, who recorded 23 points, including eight goals, in 23 playoff games, sustained injuries to his adductor muscle and sports hernia while playing for Team USA at the World Cup in February. Despite his injuries, he returned to play in the Panthers' first-round series against the Tampa Bay Lightning.
Coach Paul Maurice stated in June that Tkachuk was in poor condition due to his injuries. However, Tkachuk revealed his injuries after the Panthers' second consecutive Stanley Cup win in June, giving him a few weeks to recover before making a decision about surgery. As of August 2025, the decision remains undecided, with Tkachuk himself indicating the chance is about "50-50" that he’ll have the procedure.
If Tkachuk decides to have surgery, he could miss the first two to three months of the next season, including the Panthers' first regular-season game scheduled for October 7 at home against the Chicago Blackhawks. Without surgery, the timeline could be shorter but remains uncertain.
Regardless of the decision, the Panthers will be hoping for a swift recovery for their key player. The team will be relying on Tkachuk's talents as they aim to defend their Stanley Cup title in the upcoming season.
Sources:
- ESPN
- Sportsnet
- The Athletic
- NBC Sports
- TSN
- Tkachuk's injuries, sustained during the World Cup of Hockey, have led him to consider surgery, which could keep him out of football matches for several months, potentially affecting his participation in key events like the 2026 Winter Olympics and American-football games.
- Despite his injuries, Tkachuk managed to score 23 points, including eight goals, in 23 playoff games, showcasing his dedication to sports even when faced with adversity.
- If Tkachuk undergoes surgery, he might miss the start of the 2025–26 NHL season, including the Panthers' first home game against the Chicago Blackhawks in hockey, highlighting the importance of his decision for the team's success in the upcoming season.
