Tkachuk hasn’t played for the Panthers since suffering a groin injury in February’s 4 Nations Face-Off. He said his “goal” is to rejoin practice this week, but his return to game action will hinge on what day the postseason starts.

Speaking of Bennett, he will return to the Panthers’ lineup on Monday against the New York Rangers after missing four games with an upper-body injury. Bennett took line rushes with Evan Rodrigues and Jesper Boqvist during the team’s morning skate.

Matthew Tkachuk speaks up on his status amid the looming playoff battle between the Panthers and the Lightning.