Tkachuk Practices in Non-Contact Jersey, Ruled Out for Friday's Winter Classic

Florida Panthers winger Matthew Tkachuk (groin) participated in Thursday's morning skate wearing a non-contact jersey, a significant step in his recovery from offseason groin surgery. Despite the progress, head coach Paul Maurice ruled him out for Friday's Winter Classic against the Rangers. Tkachuk has missed the first 39 games this season and is expected to return to the lineup in the next week or two. He recorded 22 goals and 35 assists in 52 regular-season games during the 2024-25 season.