The Florida Panthers, two-time defending Stanley Cup champions, may begin their title defense without one of their biggest stars. According to Sportsnet’s Nick Kypreos, forward Matthew Tkachuk could require corrective surgery that might sideline him until the Christmas break of the 2025–26 NHL season.
The Panthers are preparing for what could be a critical campaign, and the potential absence of Tkachuk introduces early adversity. The star winger played a vital role in the team’s back-to-back championships, including a gutsy playoff run despite serious injury. “There’s a possibility that Matthew Tkachuk’s injury may need corrective surgery which could keep him out through the Christmas break,” Kypreos reported.
Without confirmation on the surgical decision, the team faces weeks of uncertainty. In the meantime, leadership responsibilities may shift to key veterans like Brad Marchand, Sam Bennett, and Aaron Ekblad as Florida aims to maintain its elite form.
What caused Tkachuk’s setback?
The root of Tkachuk’s injury dates back to February 2025, when he suffered a lower-body injury while representing Team USA in the 4 Nations Face-Off tournament. He missed the remainder of that competition and the final stretch of the regular season but returned for the playoffs.
Sam Bennett #9 of the Florida Panthers celebrates with Brad Marchand #63 after scoring a goal against the Carolina Hurricanes during the third period in Game Five of the Eastern Conference Final of the 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Lenovo Center on May 28, 2025 in Raleigh, North Carolina. (Photo by Jared C. Tilton/Getty Images)
After Florida’s second consecutive Stanley Cup triumph, Tkachuk revealed he had played through a torn adductor muscle and a sports hernia, stating candidly: “I wanted to throw in the towel a bunch of times.” Despite the pain, he led the team with 23 points in 23 playoff games, cementing his status as one of the league’s toughest performers.
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Now, with the offseason underway, medical evaluations are reportedly pointing toward surgery as a likely step — a decision that could sideline him through the early months of the new season.
Marchand, Bennett, and Ekblad face increased responsibility
Should Tkachuk miss the first half of the season, the Panthers’ leadership group will need to carry the load. Veteran winger Brad Marchand, acquired in a bold offseason move, will be expected to provide offensive firepower and veteran poise. Sam Bennett, known for his grit and physicality, may take on a bigger role in the top six, while Aaron Ekblad will be tasked with anchoring the blue line and maintaining defensive stability.
Florida opens the 2025–26 season against the Chicago Blackhawks, a high-profile game that would traditionally spotlight Tkachuk alongside the championship banner. Instead, the team may begin its campaign leaning on depth and collective experience — qualities that fueled them through multiple playoff injuries over the last two seasons.
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Even without Tkachuk, the Panthers have proven they can weather adversity. However, if the star forward’s recovery extends deep into the schedule, Florida’s hopes of a historic three-peat could be significantly tested.
