Brady Tkachuk Responds to Andlauer: 'I’m a Big Boy'

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Brady Tkachuk Responds to Andlauer: 'I’m a Big Boy'

Originally posted on NHL Trade Talk | Last updated Oct 21, 2026 2:20 PM ET

Brady Tkachuk says he doesn’t know when the emotions will hit him tonight, but he knows what the moment means. The former captain of the Ottawa Senators makes his first appearance in Ottawa as a visitor when the Florida Panthers face the Senators at 7:30 p.m. ET.

“I just know how special it’s going to be for me just to be there in front of the fans that supported me,” Tkachuk said. He spent eight seasons in Ottawa, and said the fans always supported him and his family. Of course, it’s unclear whether those same fans will support him now.

The response to Brady’s return could go either way: boos raining down from the fans in attendance or cheers and admiration for what he brought during his time in Ottawa. Asked about his legacy, Tkachuk said he hopes it is one of effort. He wants to be remembered for giving everything he had every night and being able to look in the mirror knowing he gave it all.

Brady Tkachuk Denies Trade Request Rumors

Tkachuk was also asked when he changed his mind about staying. He said professional and personal reasons kept him from re-signing, and that many remain private between him and general manager Steve Staios. “It just happened to work out this way,” he said.

He also addressed comments from Senators owner Michael Andlauer, who suggested trade speculation began with Tkachuk’s father, Keith. Some reports have claimed Keith was telling anyone who would listen at the Olympics that he’d get Brady out of Ottawa. Tkachuk was firm. Andlauer suggested Keith and Matthew Tkachuk got in Brady’s head and that’s why the former Senators captain suddenly wanted out.

Although it wasn’t sudden. Despite saying he had no idea why the media kept creating storylines that he was looking to leave, Brady maintained that wasn’t the case. Few believed him.

“He’s entitled to his opinion, but I know for myself, it was 100% my decision. I’m a big boy. I can make decisions for myself and my family.”

Not everyone in the Senators’ room is focused on the storyline. Tim Stützle said Tkachuk’s return isn’t on his mind and that he’s only trying to win the game.

Tkachuk, who arrived at the rink early Wednesday to visit old friends and teammates, was the face of the franchise as captain. Tonight he walks in as an opponent. Whether the crowd cheers or boos him remains to be seen, but his trade request and reputation in Canadian rinks suggest an interesting night.

This article first appeared on NHL Trade Talk and was syndicated with permission.

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