Brady Tkachuk braces for an emotional return to Ottawa, as Senators host Panthers

Brady Tkachuk says he’s grateful for his eight seasons with the Ottawa Senators as he prepares to face his former team for the first time Wednesday.

The Florida Panthers forward says personal and professional reasons were behind his decision to leave Ottawa, but those details will remain private.

Tkachuk, who spent five seasons as Senators captain, was traded to Florida in June, joining his older brother Matthew in Florida.

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Senators owner Michael Andlauer previously suggested Tkachuk’s father, Keith, and brother influenced his decision to request a trade.

“Yeah, I saw the quote and he’s entitled to his opinion,” Tkachuk said. “I know for myself it was 100 per cent my decision. I can make decisions for myself and my family.”

The 27-year-old says the chance to play alongside his brother is special, recalling how they roomed together at the Olympic Games in February, when they helped the United States win gold.

Tkachuk says he doesn’t know how Ottawa fans will receive him or what emotions to expect when he steps onto the ice, but remains thankful for the support he and his family received during his time with the Senators.

“I know how I feel about this city, about this fanbase,” he said. “And no matter what the reaction’s going to be, it’s not going to change how I feel about this city and this fanbase.”

He says the game in Ottawa is a once-in-a-lifetime moment and hopes both sides can move forward afterward, while he holds on to the memories he made in Ottawa.