Having reached the Stanley Cup finals for the first time since 1996, the Florida Panthers are still congratulating themselves on what could well be one of the most significant trades in their history.
When the deal with the Calgary Flames was sealed on July 22, 2022, many observers disapproved of the Florida organization’s decision to let go of Jonathan Huberdeau, who had just accumulated 115 points in the regular season. However, general manager Bill Zito believed that by capturing Tkachuk he had his hands on a prime alternative to fuel his offense. Ottawa Senators forward Brady Tkachuk’s brother agreed, however, and continues to do so.
He surpassed 100 points for the second year in a row while Huberdeau struggled in Alberta. And when the Flames missed the playoffs, the Panthers took full advantage of their playoff presence; However, it’s worth noting that they ended up one point behind Calgary during the campaign. Still, nothing can be taken away from the Panthers, who defeated three National Hockey League stars and reached the finals. They have Matthew Tkachuk, the Conn-Smythe Trophy candidate of choice, to thank for that. He improved again on Wednesday, scoring the winning goal four seconds from time in a 4-3 win over the Carolina Hurricanes.
“Who else? It’s impossible to explain what he brings to this team,” defenseman Aaron Ekblad told NHL.com of his teammate.
For Tkachuk, everything remains a team game and not a question of individual achievements.
“We know our potential. We know how to play well and what allows us to achieve success. Experiencing that with the boys and seeing the calm here is something very special. Nothing bothers us. Even if the opponent scores with three minutes to go and we might be wondering what’s going to happen next, we’re still in control,” he said after the Eastern Conference Finals.
To hell with superstitions
While awaiting the final, the Panthers will take a few days off and reflect on the Prince of Wales Trophy that will be awarded to the Eastern Champions. Also, Tkachuk doesn’t care about superstitions and touched the object when it was presented to the winners after Wednesday’s meeting. It’s a coveted prize, although the biggest is still up for grabs.
“Nobody predicted that we would qualify for the playoffs. It is very comfortable to grip and carry while being photographed with it. “We deserve it,” he justified himself. We really didn’t go the easy way. I think we appreciate blocking shots, taking punches and doing whatever it takes to win a trophy like this.