Overview
- Tkachuk, 28, played his first game of 2025–26 on Jan. 19, logging just under 21 minutes with three shots and early physicality against San Jose.
- Florida lost 4-1 to the Sharks, tempering the celebratory night despite a raucous welcome for his first shift.
- He had offseason surgery to repair a torn adductor and sports hernia suffered during the 4 Nations Face-Off, after missing the last 25 games of 2024–25 and the first 47 this season.
- The Panthers activated him after morning skate, having practiced him on a third line and making roster and cap adjustments, including demoting Noah Gregor.
- His return comes with 35 games remaining and gives him a window to build form for potential U.S. Olympic duty next month.