Matthew Tkachuk of the Florida Panthers is weighing the option of undergoing surgery due to a torn adductor muscle and sports hernia he sustained during the 4 Nations Face-Off in February. Tkachuk managed to play through significant pain, contributing 23 points during the playoffs and leading the Panthers to their second consecutive Stanley Cup victory. He expressed uncertainty over the surgery decision, acknowledging the potential for a lengthy recovery that could sideline him for up to three months.

This off-season has been a whirlwind for Tkachuk, marked by personal milestones, including his marriage and appearance on the cover of EA Sports' NHL 26. He also highlighted the successful re-signing of key teammates Sam Bennett, Aaron Ekblad, and Brad Marchand, crucial for the Panthers' ambitions to secure a third straight title. Tkachuk noted that the team's chemistry and recent successes make Florida an attractive destination for players.