Matthew Tkachuk was forced to leave Team USA’s 4 Nations Face-Off win over Canada on Saturday due to a lower-body injury, as confirmed by coach Mike Sullivan.
Details about the injury were scarce following the 3-1 victory. Sullivan mentioned that Tkachuk was being assessed by the team’s doctors and that decisions would be made based on what is best for both Tkachuk and the team, though he didn’t have much information to share.
Tkachuk skated around the ice during the third period, testing an issue after just nine seconds into his shift. At one point, he appeared to tell assistant coach John Tortorella that he “couldn’t go.” He played only 1:13 in the third period and did not return for the remaining 12 minutes of the game.
When asked about his condition, Tkachuk downplayed the injury and attempted to change the subject.
Tkachuk brushed off any worries about his injury, saying, “No concern at all. I feel good. Definitely way better after a win. Should be all good.”
With Team USA securing a spot in the 4 Nations final on Thursday night in Boston, coach Mike Sullivan may choose to rest Tkachuk during Monday’s round-robin finale against Sweden, as the result of the game won’t impact the outcome of the NHL-run international tournament. If Tkachuk sits out, veteran winger Chris Kreider is available to step in.
It seems that Tkachuk has no desire to miss any part of the tournament, especially after he and many other players waited so long for the opportunity to compete in top-level international play with the best in the world. For Tkachuk, this experience nearly matches the excitement of winning the Stanley Cup with the Florida Panthers last season.
“Other than Game 7 last year, this has been the highlight of my hockey career,” Tkachuk shared. “I’m just going to enjoy it with the guys.”
