Seth Jones experienced his first skate as a Florida Panthers player on Monday. However, the timeline for when he will be joined on the ice by Matthew Tkachuk remains uncertain. The Panthers, reigning Stanley Cup champions, announced that Tkachuk is on long-term injured reserve because of a lower-body injury. This situation implies that Tkachuk could be sidelined for several weeks, possibly returning only for the postseason.
“Matthew will be out for quite some time,” said Bill Zito, the Panthers’ general manager and president of hockey operations, during Jones’ introduction. “We aim to have him back for the playoffs. We have a plan, a diagnosis, and a rehabilitation strategy in place. The progression and manner of his rehab are still being assessed.”
The absence of Tkachuk, who last played during the 4 Nations Face-Off tournament, presents a considerable challenge for the team. Conversely, the arrival of Jones, a prominent defenseman acquired in a recent trade with the Chicago Blackhawks, represents an essential enhancement. The Panthers intend to gradually integrate Jones into their strategy as he familiarizes himself with the Eastern Conference and new playstyles. Despite these adjustments, Jones expressed enthusiasm about joining the Panthers, especially as his first match will be against the team’s in-state rival, the Tampa Bay Lightning.
“I sought to play for a contending team, and Florida was naturally high on my list,” stated Jones, who has not participated in a playoff game since 2020. “I aim to be integrated into this team, contribute both defensively and offensively, and align with the established system while delivering what I’m tasked to do.”
Jones is also adjusting to the change in weather, greatly contrasting his previous home base in Chicago. Upon his arrival on Monday for his morning skate with the Panthers, the temperature was notably warmer, prompting him to leave his winter gear behind.
“I left my heavy jacket in Chicago,” Jones joked. “There’s probably a blizzard occurring there right now.”
