Matthew Tkachuk will make his return to the Florida Panthers lineup for Game 1.

Earlier in the day, Panthers coach Paul Maurice said Tkachuk would be a game-time decision after the team activated him off long-term injured reserve.

Tkachuk hasn’t played since the 4 Nations Face-Off two months ago due to a lower-body injury.

The 27-year-old was hurt during Team USA’s second game of the tournament. He dressed for the final against Canada but did not play in the third period or overtime.

Tkachuk was placed on long-term injured reserve and missed Florida’s final 25 games of the regular season.

He finished third on the team in scoring with 57 points (22 goals and 35 assists) in 52 games.

Watch Game 1 in the Battle of Florida live on Sportsnet and Sportsnet+ starting at 8:30 p.m. ET / 5:30 p.m. PT.