The Athletic Hockey Show Brady Tkachuk talks Olympics, Canada rivalry, and going for gold
Jan 25, 2026
Brady Tkachuk, Ottawa Senators captain and NHL forward, talks making Team USA for Milano Cortina and wearing the national sweater. He reflects on playing with his brother Matthew and dreaming of a gold medal. He breaks down lessons from the Four Nations and the intensity of the U.S.-Canada rivalry. He also discusses pressure, representation, and the thrill of NHL players returning to the Olympics.
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Childhood Dream Of Olympic Glory
- Brady Tkachuk says representing Team USA at the Olympics is a dream come true after years of hard work.
- He recalls bringing his dad's Salt Lake City silver medal to show-and-tell as a kid and dreaming of adding his own medal.
Adversity Fuels Olympic Preparation
- Brady frames Four Nations' loss as one goal away and a learning moment before the Olympics.
- He says facing adversity can make future victories sweeter and fuel Olympic preparation.
Scripted Show Of Team Unity
- Brady describes scripting a confrontational opening with Canada at the Bell Centre and feeling the team's outsider status.
- He remembers his family’s surprised reactions and his mom being flustered after the opening sequence.