Florida Panthers forward Matthew Tkachuk is making his highly anticipated return to the lineup for Game 1 of the Stanley Cup Playoffs series against the Tampa Bay Lightning.
Tkachuk participated in warmups and was confirmed to be in the lineup for Tuesday`s playoff opener. Coach Paul Maurice had earlier stated that Tkachuk would be a game-time decision after being activated from long-term injured reserve.
The 27-year-old star player has not played in two months, sidelined by a lower-body injury he sustained during the 4 Nations Face-Off tournament. While he dressed for the final game of that tournament, he did not see ice time in the third period or overtime.
Following the injury, Tkachuk was placed on long-term injured reserve, resulting in him missing the final 25 games of the regular season for the Panthers.
Despite the significant time missed, Tkachuk remained a key offensive force for Florida, finishing third on the team in scoring with 57 points, accumulated from 22 goals and 35 assists, in the 52 games he played. His return is expected to provide a major boost to the team`s offense as they begin their postseason campaign.
Tristan Blackwood