“Addicted to those big game feelings”: Brady Tkachuk reveals 4 Nations impact on his mindset for NHL playoffs

Image via Imagn Images

Brady Tkachuk, captain of the Ottawa Senators, recently opened up about his experience at the 4 Nations Face-Off and how it has shaped his mindset for the NHL playoffs.

Representing Team USA alongside his brother, Matthew Tkachuk, Brady described the tournament as his “favorite hockey memory,” emphasizing how the intensity of the games gave him a newfound appreciation for high-stakes competition.

Brady Tkachuk on 4 Nations Face-Off

The 4 Nations Face-Off was one of the most intense hockey events in recent history. In a heated match against Team Canada, the game started with three fights in the first nine seconds—a response to Canadian fans at the Bell Centre booing the U.S. national anthem. Brady and Matthew Tkachuk were at the center of these altercations, setting the tone for a fierce rivalry.

Reflecting on the tournament, Brady Tkachuk candidly shared how the experience fueled his competitive drive, “Well, I’m not going to lie to you. Ever since Four Nations, I’ve been addicted to those big game feelings. Those are the biggest games that I’ve ever played in and maybe I want to play that way in playoffs. We lost but we won people’s hearts and it’s better than anything. You can’t look too far ahead. It’s all about treating every game as a Game Seven and doing whatever it takes to get the job done.”

Playing alongside his brother on an international stage was a dream come true. Matthew Tkachuk also reflected on their shared experience, saying, “We talked about this moment, playing together, forever. And now that it’s finally happening, it’s just been amazing, and we’re super grateful for it. We’re just having so much fun.”

As of March 23, 2025, the Ottawa Senators are fighting for a spot in the Stanley Cup playoffs. A recent 3-2 victory over the New Jersey Devils strengthened their position in the Eastern Conference wild-card race. In that game, Brady Tkachuk played a crucial role, scoring a key goal to help secure the win.

The Senators have been pushing hard throughout the season, and their recent trade for forward Dylan Cozens from the Buffalo Sabres is expected to bolster their chances down the stretch. With the playoffs fast approaching, every game will be critical for Ottawa’s postseason hopes.

With the regular season winding down, Brady Tkachuk is committed to bringing the same intensity he felt at the 4 Nations Face-Off to the Senators’ playoff push. His mindset of treating every game like a Game Seven could prove to be the key to Ottawa’s success.

As the Senators continue their fight for a playoff spot, fans will be watching closely to see if Tkachuk’s newfound passion for high-pressure games can propel the team to postseason glory.