Concerns arose Thursday night when Brady Tkachuk remained on the bench for the final minutes of the third period due to a hip injury. However, Ottawa Senators head coach Travis Green quickly allayed fears, assuring fans that Tkachuk is in top form for the classic “Battle of Ontario.”
This update is crucial for the Senators, who heavily rely on Tkachuk’s leadership and physical presence on the ice. Despite recently returning from an intense stint with Team USA at the 4 Nations Tournament, where he sustained several knocks and bruises, Tkachuk has shown remarkable recovery.
“He’s fine,” Green stated, as reported by Elliotte Friedman on X (formerly Twitter). His timely return provides a significant boost for the Senators as they push for a playoff spot.
Tkachuk has been a cornerstone for the Senators this season, tallying 27 goals and 25 assists for a total of 52 points. His performance has been particularly outstanding in March, with six goals and two assists, playing a pivotal role in the team’s five-game winning streak. The Senators, who have exceeded many expectations this season, are now aiming to extend their streak to six games against their bitter rivals, the Toronto Maple Leafs.
Senators surprise, and Tkachuk leads the way
The 2024-25 NHL season has been a pleasant surprise for the Senators, who have emerged as a competitive and resilient team. Alongside Tkachuk, the team boasts a strong core of talented players, including Tim Stützle, who is having an outstanding campaign, as well as key contributions from Drake Batherson, Claude Giroux, and Jake Sanderson. The recent acquisition of Dylan Cozens in the Norris trade has further bolstered the team’s roster, adding depth and versatility.
What’s next for the Senators?
The upcoming game between the Senators and the Maple Leafs promises to be an electrifying and action-packed event. Both teams are firmly in contention for the NHL playoffs, and the historic rivalry between them adds an extra layer of intensity. The game is scheduled to begin at 7:00 PM ET and is expected to be a memorable spectacle for fans of both teams. With Tkachuk on the ice, the Senators are poised to give it their all in this crucial gam