We’re entering the final phase of the 2024-25 regular season, with most teams having 10 or fewer games left before the playoffs.
Even at this late stage, the playoff picture is still coming together. While top teams have almost secured their playoff spots, there`s still competition for seeding, division titles, and wild-card positions in both conferences.
Beyond the remaining regular season games, injuries are another significant factor influencing the shape of the 2025 playoffs.
Key players are sidelined in both conferences, and their potential returns are crucial for their teams` deep playoff aspirations. In this Playoff Push update, we examine some notable injury situations affecting playoff contenders in each conference and their potential impact on the postseason:
Florida Panthers: Brad Marchand, Matthew Tkachuk
The Panthers` injury situation is improving as trade deadline acquisition Brad Marchand is nearing his debut. His arrival was a significant deadline move, and there`s been much discussion about how the Panthers will look with Marchand, especially alongside Sam Benett. An upper-body injury delayed his debut, but Marchand is expected to return on Friday, playing with Bennett and Mackie Samoskevich.
A more critical injury concern for the Panthers is Matthew Tkachuk`s status. As a core player and top scorer, Tkachuk`s absence is definitely felt. Sidelined since early February, it was announced in early March that he would miss the rest of the regular season. GM Bill Zito hopes for his return in the playoffs. Tkachuk`s return timing and performance level will be crucial for Florida`s title defense hopes.
