Matthew Tkachuk Returns to Panthers Practice in Non-Contact Jersey

Matthew Tkachuk (Florida Panthers) participated in his first team practice since last year's playoffs on Sunday, wearing a non-contact jersey. The star forward underwent offseason surgery for a torn adductor and sports hernia, sustained while playing for Team USA in February. He is nearing a return, but his game play timeline, including for the upcoming Winter Classic, remains unclear as the team prioritizes his full health. Tkachuk played through injuries in the last playoffs, recording 23 points in 23 games.