Main Story

Brady Tkachuk’s return to Ottawa as a Florida Panther became a charged reunion, with Senators fans booing him, chanting through his video tribute and altering jerseys to show their anger over his trade request. Tkachuk acknowledged the hostile reception while saying it wouldn’t change his gratitude for the city and fans. He scored the game’s opening goal on the power play.

By the Numbers
  • 8 seasons Tkachuk played for Ottawa after being drafted fourth overall in 2018.
  • 7 years: Ottawa’s playoff drought ended in 2025, with Tkachuk helping the team return.
  • Florida entered at 5-2-2; Ottawa was 6-3-0.
  • Tkachuk scored natural hat tricks in back-to-back games before earning NHL first star of the week.
Yes, But

Some Senators fans viewed Tkachuk’s departure as a betrayal, while he maintains the decision was his own and says the reasons for leaving remain private. His time in Ottawa also included growing criticism over his podcast and attendance at a White House celebration.

Bottom Line

The boos marked a sharp break from Tkachuk’s former status as an Ottawa fan favorite, but they don’t erase the eight seasons of history he says he values.