“Not a one-man show”: Brady Tkachuk credits family as Senators captain prepares to play with brother Matthew Tkachuk at Olympics

Brady Tkachuk is confident that his older brother, Matthew Tkachuk, will be in top form for the United States’ opening game at the upcoming Olympic Winter Games in Milano Cortina. Team USA faces Latvia on February 12, and the Florida Panthers forward is returning from a long injury layoff, aiming to make an immediate impact.Since returning from surgery to repair a torn adductor and sports hernia on August 22, Matthew has contributed three assists in four games. Brady believes the former Stanley Cup champion will regain his timing quickly before the Olympic break, which starts after Florida’s matchup against the Utah Mammoth on Tuesday at 7 p.m. ET.Brady emphasized that his and Matthew’s success is not just about individual talent. “All the credit goes to our parents and my sister and all of our family and friends, coaches that helped us both get to where we’re at. It’s not a one-man show to become an Olympian,” he said. Playing alongside each other on the Olympic stage is a lifelong dream for the Tkachuk brothers, and the support of their family has been a key factor in reaching this milestone.Matthew has a proven ability to shine in big moments, which gives Team USA extra confidence. Last season, he missed the last 25 regular-season games because of an injury but came back strong for the playoffs, scoring 23 points in 23 games and tying for the team lead. His efforts helped Florida win back-to-back Stanley Cups. Brady believes Matthew will bring that same drive and energy to the Olympic ice.This marks the first Olympics with NHL players since 2014, making the experience even more significant. Brady, Team USA’s captain with 32 points in 32 games this season, expressed excitement about competing alongside his brother at the highest level. “You never really expect it to be a dream come true. Of course, that's always something that you've wanted to do is play at any level with your brother and create memories that way. But the fact that we're going to be able to do it on the top level at the Olympics and both being Olympians, it’s more than a dream,” he said.With family support as their foundation and both brothers motivated by past unfinished business, Team USA is set to make a strong Olympic run. Matthew’s return and the Tkachuk brothers’ bond could be the spark that helps the team chase its first Olympic gold in men’s hockey since 1980.