Cup champions who start the season Oct. 7 at home vs Chicago; navigating Tkachuk’s absence while Nosek is out, with December return in sight and Olympic ambitions shaping the roster moves.

Nosek is out indefinitely after an offseason injury, adding a layer of depth concern for Florida as it starts camp with Tkachuk sidelined and eyes on flexible lineup options.

Tkachuk is sidelined until December after offseason sports hernia and torn adductor surgery; he had surgery in August and is a pivotal U.S. Olympic hopeful for Milan-Cortina 2026, having posted 23 playoff points in 23 games last postseason including seven in the Final.

Panthers pursue a potential three-peat but face cap pressure and key health questions as Tkachuk recovers and depth is tested after re-signings of Bennett and Ekblad; Tarasov adds depth behind a contending roster.

Caldwell previously led Florida Panthers to back-to-back Stanley Cup finals; his Panthers tenure informs his approach to organizational turnaround, culture, and aligning business with hockey-ops discipline as he tackles Minnesota’s arena ambitions.