Former Ottawa Senators captain Brady Tkachuk returned to the Capital on Wednesday night as a member of the Florida Panthers and was greeted with a chorus of boos from the sell‑out crowd. The reaction began during warm‑ups and continued through the game, with some fans tossing Tkachuk jerseys onto the ice and chanting slogans such as “We don’t need you!” and “Matthew’s better!”
Player’s response
Despite the hostile reception, Tkachuk smiled, raised his stick and waved to the arena. After the Panthers’ 5‑1 victory, he told reporters, “It was good. Shows the passion that they have. One chapter closed and an exciting new chapter we’re living in, so it was nice being a part of this passionate fan base.” He added that he still holds fond memories of his eight seasons in Ottawa and that his family also enjoyed the time there.
Game highlights
Tkachuk opened the night with a power‑play goal on the Panthers’ first shot, the only scoring highlight for Florida. Ottawa’s Senators played a strong defensive game, feeding off the energy in the building and improving as the night progressed. Fans cheered when Artem Zub checked Tkachuk on his first shift, and the arena took on a playoff‑like atmosphere.
Background on the trade
The 27‑year‑old forward requested a trade from the Senators four months earlier, citing professional and personal reasons. After a season‑ending conference in April, he confirmed that rumors about his future had become a distraction. Less than two months later, he was dealt to the Panthers, joining his brother Matthew, a two‑time Stanley Cup champion with Florida.
Senators owner Michael Andlauer suggested that Tkachuk’s father and brother influenced his decision, a claim Tkachuk rejected, stating, “I know for myself it was 100 % my decision. I can make decisions for myself and my family.”
Fan reactions
Several season‑ticket holders altered their Tkachuk jerseys, crossing out the captain’s “C” and writing “Wingmen is trash,” referencing criticism the brothers received for their “Wingmen” podcast. One fan, Neil Kennelly, said, “He doesn’t want to be here, don’t let the door hit you on the way out. We want people who want to be here.” Another fan, Phil Grant, claimed the decision was made by Tkachuk’s brother and father.
Looking ahead
Tkachuk said the boos did not change his appreciation for Ottawa. “I’ve had so many great memories here that will last forever,” he said. “I just know how thankful and appreciative I am for everything that’s happened the last eight years.” The Panthers will look to build on the win as they continue their season, while the Senators aim to capitalize on the momentum from their strong performance against Florida.
Original reporting: WPBF (Treasure Coast / Hearst) — read the source article.
