Florida Panthers forward Matthew Tkachuk has come out to say something about recent issues concerning his health as preparations for Game 4 against the Toronto Maple Leafs were ongoing. Tkachuk, who missed much of the regular season due to a groin injury he suffered at the 4 Nations Face-Off, has come under fire due to his play in the playoffs. In response to questions on whether he’s fit to play, Tkachuk responded,
“I’m very happy to be out there,” Tkachuk said. “It was a long time off. I’m just happy to be out there with the guys here. There’s nothing better.”
Matthew Tkachuk Shuts Down Injury Talk Ahead of Critical Game 4 vs Maple Leafs
Coach Paul Maurice paid special attention to Tkachuk’s ice time at the beginning of the playoffs, not letting him play much in the initial matches against the Tampa Bay Lightning, to prevent pushing him too hard in his return.
Since the Toronto series began, Tkachuk has averaged nearly 20 minutes per game, up from the 13:42 he played in the five games versus the Lightning. Tkachuk has tallied two assists in his last three games against Toronto, seven hits, and three takeaways. Other observers claim that Tkachuk’s carryover from his previous injury may be the reason for his point output and ice time being low.
Aside from his ice numbers, Tkachuk’s influence is undeniably great. His leadership in the locker room is felt; his able to give the team an important motivational spark. His legacy is destined to continue for the duration of the playoffs.
Tkachuk has not been as significant to this hockey team’s playoff game against Toronto as fans and analysts have become accustomed to him being. In the absence of the Florida star for 30 games due to a lower-body injury, some are wondering if he is playing at 100% during this postseason. However, when Tkachuk was directly asked about his health, he answered confidently in just five words: “I am physically feeling great,”
However, Tkachuk’s contribution came out in Game 3, as the Panthers clawed out a 5-4 win to escape a 0-3 hole in the series. In the run-up to Game 4, it’s Tkachuk’s game that will be of interest in deciding whether the Panthers can even things up in the series.
After having shown his toughness by playing with a broken sternum in last season’s Cup Final, nobody questions his desire. Now, the key question is whether he will convert his toughness into ice success tonight.
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