Matthew Tkachuk could get in trouble for latest comments on injury

Florida is getting ready to defend their Stanley Cup title and Matthew Tkachuk, who has not appeared for the Panthers since before the 4 Nations Face-Off in February, is desperate to return from a lower-body injury.

Earlier this week, head coach Paul Maurice told the Joe Rose Show of WQAM that he is very close to returning, even if he isn’t ready for Game 1 of the Panthers’ first-round matchup.

“This week is really important for him,” Maurice said. “He’s not that far off, If he’s not [ready for Game 1], he’s very, very close. We’re not missing this by two weeks.

However, when speaking on the “Up and Adams Show” with Kay Adams on Wednesday morning, Tkachuk admitted he could get in trouble for the update he then provided.

“I think I’d get in trouble if I said,” Tkachuk said when asked when he will play again. “I will say it’s been very good (the) last probably few days on the ice. I’ve really only been on the ice for a couple days with, like, legit skates, so I’m just trying to peak sometime around Game 1. So, [I’m] looking forward to it.”

The playoffs begin Saturday and the Cats will be facing off against the Tampa Bay Lightning in a Battle of Florida in the first round.

Tkachuk missed his team’s final 25 games though he still managed to record 22 goals and 57 points in 52 contests this season. He was injured during the 4 Nations Face-Off tournament while representing the United States. He did dress for the final against Canada on Feb. 20, but only had 6:47 of ice time.

Now he does not want to miss out on another opportunity for gold.

“It’s been crushing me the last little bit,” Tkachuk said. “I’ve been wanting to get out there so bad. I think the first couple games after that 4 Nations, you really want to be out there, but it’s probably good to try to get some rest and get recovered and everything.

“But for the last month and a little bit, I’ve just been itching so badly, so I can’t wait to get back out (there), whenever that day is, hopefully, very, very soon. So, I’m excited to get back.”

There is no doubt that Tkachuk’s return would be a boost in the Panthers’ bid to repeat as Stanley Cup champions. Let’s hope we do not get in trouble too for saying that…