For those who follow hockey, it’s hard to overlook the strong bond between Matthew Tkachuk and his brother, Brady Tkachuk. Despite representing different NHL teams—Matthew with the Florida Panthers and Brady with the Ottawa Senators—the two share a unique connection that was evident during the 4 Nations Face-Off. And what took place, you may ask? A standoff-ish moment unfolded during a group-stage match against Canada, where they, alongside teammate J.T. Miller, ignited three fights in just the opening nine seconds of the game.

Matthew engaged in a bout with Brandon Hagel, while Brady faced off against Sam Bennett, and Miller went toe-to-toe with Colton Parayko. This calculated show of resilience was a reaction to unexpected animosity from Canadian supporters and sought to invigorate their squad. Interestingly, even with their relative proximity, it turns out that Brady still holds a grudge against Matthew for an incident that occurred many years ago.

In a recent YouTube interview with Kay Adams, Matthew reflected on a memory involving his brother, saying, “I haven’t, but when we were younger, I said that it’s probably time. I think it would be cool for both of us to shave our heads in the summer. It was getting hot. And if there’s any time to do it, it’s now. So he’s like, okay, I’m in. So he goes first, does it? And then I kind of, kind of was soft and, and backed out. And he was, we actually just talked about this the other day, but he was so mad and still is.”

Keith Tkachuk‘s sons grew up together. However, as siblings, they undoubtedly engaged in numerous activities in tandem. The Tkachuk brothers are recognized for their intense presence on the ice, yet after that haircut incident, it certainly appears that Matthew is quite intimidated by Brady.

Additionally, he disclosed that since he didn’t shave his head during that moment, Brady remains angry about the situation. Interestingly, Did you know that Matthew expressed genuine excitement upon learning that he would be competing alongside his brother at the 4 Nations Face-Off?

Matthew Tkachuk’s excitement was through the roof

Growing up as the offspring of the iconic hockey figure, Keith Tkachuk naturally comes with a unique tendency to hold the brothers to high standards by his supporters. The siblings faced a distinct mirage to mirror their father’s achievements and uphold his legacy. Despite their eventual rise to prominence in the hockey world, it is important to recognize that they each achieved this through their individual efforts and accomplishments.

Matthew Tkachuk expressed his enthusiasm about the opportunity to play alongside his brother Brady at the 4-Nations, sharing, “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.”

After countless moments spent on backyard ice throughout their junior careers, Brady and Matthew focused on a major aspiration: to adorn their country’s colors and compete side by side on a prestigious platform. And the 4 Nations Face-Off tournament unfolded exactly as they had anticipated.