Matthew Tkachuk stood out with a goal and an assist in Game 2 of the 2025 NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs Eastern Conference Final, where the Florida Panthers extended their lead over the Carolina Hurricanes with a dominant 5-0 victory, taking a 2-0 advantage in the series.
Tkachuk’s performance was not only crucial in securing the win, but also earned praise from Florida captain Aleksander Barkov, who called him a key part of head coach Paul Maurice’s squad.
If the Panthers want to win another Stanley Cup, they’ll need to clear any doubts about their form and look to close out the series against the Canes. In that context, Tkachuk breaking his scoring drought came at just the right time.
Barkov’s message about Tkachuk’s performance
“He always plays well. He’s a one-of-a-kind player and we’re lucky to have him on our side. He does it all for us. He’s huge for us,” Barkov said about the star forward, according to NHL.com. It’s clear the 27-year-old is a key piece for Florida.
Aleksander Barkov #16 of the Florida Panthers looks on during the first period against the Tampa Bay Lightning in Game Four of the First Round of the 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Amerant Bank Arena on April 28, 2025 in Sunrise, Florida.
Despite his recent scoring slump, Tkachuk has proven that his return to form has been a major boost for the Panthers. So far in the current playoffs, he has tallied 12 points (four goals and eight assists) in 14 games, playing a vital role in their quest for back-to-back Stanley Cup titles.
see also
NHL News: Matthew Tkachuk makes bold admission about goal drought with Panthers, references Alex Ovechkin
Uncertainty surrounding Sam Reinhart
After two road wins in Carolina, the series now shifts to Sunrise, where the Panthers will aim to extend their lead at home. However, they’re facing uncertainty regarding Sam Reinhart’s status. The forward suffered a lower-body injury in Game 2 and is currently being evaluated.
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