Panther’s forward Matthew Tkachuk will be a game-time decision for Game 1 against the Tampa Bay Lightning, head coach Paul Maurice told reporters.
Tkachuk hasn't played since the 4 Nations Face-Off two months ago due to a suspected groin injury but has been a full participant in postseason practice.
“He’ll get checked out one more time by the doctors before we get him cleared,” Maurice said.
Prior to his injury, Tkachuk ranked second on the Panthers in scoring with 57 points (22 goals, 35 assists), including cracking the scoresheet in seven of his final eight games. He was placed on long-term injured reserve and missed Florida's final 25 games of the regular season.