Tkachuk Brothers Lead US Hockey's Quest for Olympic Gold

When the NHL announced its players would return to the Olympics after a decade away, the Tkachuk family group chat exploded with excitement.

Matthew Tkachuk, 28, plays forward for the back-to-back Stanley Cup champion Florida Panthers. His younger brother Brady, 26, is a four-time NHL All-Star with the Ottawa Senators. Their father Keith represented the US at four Olympics during his 18-year NHL career.

The brothers weren't just excited. They were ready to prove something.

"The honor to represent millions at home that are going to be watching, that's what is driving the bus for me," Matthew told TIME. "It just doesn't get bigger than this."

The February 2025 4 Nations Face-Off tournament gave fans a preview of what's coming to Milan. The US and Canada faced off in Montreal as political tensions between the nations ran high. Matthew decided to make a statement from the opening face-off, inviting Canada's Brandon Hagel to fight.

The kerfuffle worked. Fans roared as the two players dropped their gloves and traded blows. Brady immediately followed suit, taking on Sam Bennett, who happens to be Matthew's Florida Panthers teammate.

Three fights erupted in nine seconds. Eventually, a hockey game broke out, and the US won 3-1.

The tournament final in Boston drew ESPN's largest hockey audience of all time. Though Canada won in overtime, the rivalry proved one thing: hockey is back, and America is hungry.

Why This Inspires

The Tkachuks represent something larger than hockey skill. Matthew believes NHL players from the United States carry a unique pride for their country that sets them apart. The brothers' willingness to fight, compete, and put everything on the line shows what Olympic spirit looks like.

Their father played in four Olympics without winning gold. Now his sons get their chance to change the family legacy and bring home America's first men's hockey gold medal in 46 years.

The US hasn't topped the Olympic podium since the "Miracle on Ice" in 1980. Canada has won the last two Olympic tournaments featuring NHL players. Finland and Sweden remain serious threats.

But if passion, brotherhood, and national pride count for anything, the Tkachuk brothers are giving America its best shot in decades. The world will be watching when the puck drops in Milan.