Tim Thomas (groin) may return after the Christmas break. Panthers coach Peter Horachek hasn't been in a rush to activate Thomas from injured reserve because the Panthers had been playing well and they want to make sure the veteran goaltender doesn't get re-injured. "I don't see the purpose of it," Horachek said. "Why do it right now? The extra few days would be the perfect scenario. We can see him after Christmas, or pretty close." He has missed the team's last five games with a groin injury.