Panthers hit with major setback as Matthew Tkachuk out after surgery

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 Floridas run to a second straight Stanley Cup.

Tkachuks 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 leagues top forwards.

More : Latest on Connor Bedard's extension What this means for Florida Now heading into his 10th NHL season and his fourth with the Panthers, Tkachuks absence leaves a major hole in Floridas 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 USAs 2026 Olympic roster in June, but he will not be taking part in this weeks 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.

More NHL News: Blues 70-point forward gaining interest Latest on Connor Bedard's extension.

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