Tkachuk Faces Surgery Decision After Cup Win

Florida Panthers star Matthew Tkachuk played through the postseason with a torn adductor muscle, completely torn from the bone, and a sports hernia, both injuries originally sustained during the Four Nations Face-Off in February. Tkachuk missed the final 25 regular season games but returned for the playoffs, scoring eight goals and 15 assists in 23 games. His performance was instrumental in the Panthers' second consecutive Stanley Cup win, achieved with a victory over the Edmonton Oilers. He now faces a 50-50 chance of needing offseason surgery, with the decision pending further medical evaluation. Head coach Paul Maurice described Tkachuk's medical condition as 'a mess,' while Tkachuk remains optimistic about his recovery. The timing of any surgery could determine his readiness for the start of next season.