Brady Tkachuk looked like he took a stick up high, and the officials raised their arms for a Devils penalty – but what Tkachuk did next left the hockey world in shock

Brady deserves all the praise for this incredible act of sportsmanship!

Brady Tkachuk of the Ottawa Senators

Brady Tkachuk isn’t the most popular player in the NHL outside the Ottawa Senators fanbase. However, he’s now received praise from hockey fans everywhere for an act of sportsmanship in Sunday’s game against the New Jersey Devils.

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Known for his hard play, Tkachuk’s physical style has earned him the captaincy of the Ottawa Senators and the full respect of its fanbase.

However, he’s also gained a reputation for occasionally crossing the line with hits and cheap shots. This time, though, Tkachuk is earning well-deserved praise after a fantastic gesture during Sunday’s game against the New Jersey Devils.

Brady Tkachuk praised for incredible gesture

In the second period, it appeared Tkachuk took a high stick from New Jersey Devils’ Tomas Hertl to the face. The official’s arm came up as Tkachuk flinched from the stick coming close to his face, but then something remarkable happened.

After play was stopped, Tkachuk immediately waved to the official to signal that no penalty should be called. He informed them there was no contact, and the officials ultimately decided against calling a penalty. On social media, fans praised Tkachuk for showing true sportsmanship—an example every NHL player should emulate.