Is Brady Tkachuk Costing the Senators When It Matters Most?

The situation quickly became awkward, with Brady laughing uneasily during the show. While Brady later defended his father, saying the remarks were taken out of context and he thought Keith was talking about the Florida Panthers, the damage was already done. People were already questioning his commitment to the Sens and theorizing he would bolt this offseason. Analysts suggested there would be no way to avoid locker-room tension, and the fact Brady stood by his dad’s comments and didn’t say anything in defense of his own team only made matters worse.

The Coasting

Brent Wallace of Coming in Hot even accused Tkachuk of resting and coasting during the final NHL games leading into the Olympics so he could play uninjured. “That fire, that passion, that grinding will to earn victories isn’t there… he’s not the same player,” Wallace claimed.

Why Can’t Tkachuk Stay Out of the Spotlight?

Tkachuk seems to continually draw attention to himself, and it hasn’t been for positive reasons. All of this comes as the Senators battle for a wild-card spot.

Tkachuk is supposed to be the leader and emotional engine of the team, but the kind of energy he’s been bringing hasn’t always been the good kind. He’s still producing offensively (52 points on the season), however, his recent stretch—just six goals in his last 21 games—combined with questionable decisions has led to growing concern.

For Ottawa to succeed, they need the best version of their captain: physical, passionate, and controlled. He seems to be picking and choosing when to act that way, and often without regard to how it might impact the team’s push for a playoff spot. Tkachuk’s intensity has always been his strength, but right now, he’s walking a fine line.

If the Senators ultimately miss the playoffs, fingers will be pointed in his direction. And, rightfully so.