Panthers take Matthew Tkachuk off IR ahead of Game 1 in Tampa

It appears the Florida Panthers will get their star forward back for Game 1 against Tampa Bay.

The Panthers announced on Tuesday afternoon that Matthew Tkachuk had been taken off injured reserve.

Tkachuk has not played since suffering an apparent groin injury during the 4 Nations Face-Off in February.

He started skating last month and has been on the ice with the Panthers for their two most recent practices, as well as Tuesday’s morning skate at Amalie Arena.

Panthers Head Coach Paul Maurice said after the skate that Tkahcuk’s ultimate status would be determined after the medical staff checked him out.

The move to take Tkachuk off IR and announce it publicly would lead many to believe that he will be in the lineup for Game 1.

Puck drop from Tampa is set for 8:30 p.m.