Being a captain in the NHL is tough but an honor to have. For Ottawa Senators captain Brady Tkachuk, it means everything to him.
In November 2021, Tkachuk was named Senators captain. During that time, the Senators had not made the playoffs since 2017, and were a laughing stock in the NHL. Tkachuk had a heavy task to get the Senators back in the playoffs, and it happened in 2025.
Tkachuk got the Senators back to the playoffs in 2025. However, the season ended rough with losing in six games to the hated Toronto Maple Leafs. Even in defeat, Tkachuk not only showed how much he loves Ottawa, but just how valuable he is to his team.
Tkachuk fought back tears after Game 6 loss
The 4-2 loss in Game 6 last night ended the Senators season. Even in defeat, some would look at this season as a success for the Senators considering they hadn't made the playoffs since 2017. After the game, Tkachuk was devastated and fighting back tears, but he showed his love for the city of Ottawa and Sens fans.
"I just really wanna do it for them," Tkachuk said after Game 6. "They're absolutely amazing and I know it sucks right now, but I really can't wait for what the future holds."
Tkachuk mentioned it had been a "long eight years" for Sens fans to watch playoff hockey again. After losing, Sens fans were loud and chanted "go Sens go" and "Brady" to their captain. Tkachuk was the last one to leave the Canadian Tire Centre ice after the Senators saluted their fans.
In the six games against the Maple Leafs, Tkachuk dominated. Even with no previous playoff experience prior, it didn't bother Tkachuk one bit.
Tkachuk led the Senators with seven points and four goals in the playoffs. In four of the last five games, Tkachuk scored a goal and earned at least one point in the final five games of the series.
The Senators were going to need their captain to have a chance to beat the Maple Leafs in the series. Long story short, Tkachuk was ready to play.
For all the criticism surrounding Tkachuk, he silenced doubters. Tkachuk showed he can play on the big stage this season. From playing for the United States in the 4 Nations Face-Off, to now finally playing in the Stanley Cup Playoffs.
The Senators have a bright future ahead with Tkachuk leading the way. It's clear just how important Tkachuk is to the Senators, and the team and fans should be thrilled he's on the team.