SUNRISE, Fla. — Panthers star forward Matthew Tkachuk will miss Florida’s game against the Seattle Kraken on Saturday because of a lower-body injury. Panthers coach Paul Maurice announced Tkachuk’s absence after the pregame morning skate. Tkachuk first experienced discomfort during the 4 Nations Face-Off, when he helped lead the United States to the tournament final. He was limited to 6:47 of ice time in the United States’ 3-2 finals loss against Canada on Thursday. Maurice said Tkachuk will undergo more tests in the next two days before the Panthers determine the next steps. The 27-year-old Tkachuk has 22 goals and 35 assists for the Panthers this season.
