SUNRISE, Fla. — The Florida Panthers are getting back a key player for Monday’s game against the San Jose Sharks.

After missing the first 47 games of the season, forward Matthew Tkachuk will finally take to the ice at Amerant Bank Arena.

“It’s not like I can dip my toe … I told them, ‘I’m coming back, throw me in the fire,'” Tkachuck said. “We need these points, that’s why I was only coming back at 100%. Just really excited,” Panthers’ director of digital platforms Jameson Olive posted on X.

Tkachuk has yet to play in a game this season after offseason surgery to repair a sports hernia and torn abductor muscle.

The puck drops at 6 p.m. against the Sharks.

Stay with WPTV.com and WPTV News for updates on this story.

Tkachuk confirms he’s playing tonight.

No. 19 is back.

— Jameson Olive (@JamesonCoop) January 19, 2026

Panthers 360 Promo - Wednesdays on South Florida's 9

WPTV

As the Florida Panthers chase a third Stanley Cup championship this season, WPTV is along for the ride!

We will be highlighting the team with our new show on South Florida’s 9 called “Panthers 360”.

Hosted by WPTV anchor Mike Trim, watch the show each Wednesday evening and also streaming at 7:30 p.m.

We will take an in-depth look at the season, break down film and connect with the players and special stories off the ice.

Every Monday at 12:15 p.m. on the WPTV YouTube page, Trim will be joined by different analysts to discuss the latest on the team. We want to hear your thoughts, so post your questions and comments while the live interview takes place!

South Florida’s 9 is your home for Panthers hockey all season long!