The Tkachuks are renowned names for international ice hockey. The entire family—Matthew, Brady, and their father Keith—hold a profound legacy in the NHL. Significantly, the 4 Nations Face-Off featured both brothers together in the USA. It has been a moment of utmost pride for the NHL community and the families who have received laurels brought by these legends. Rewinding to 2024, Matthew Tkachuk lifted the Stanley Cup for his team, the Florida Panthers. And while it marks significant contributions to his career and the sport, Matthew has to offer his gratitude for something else—the 4-Nations Cup!

Although the USA lost to their all-time rival, Canada, in the 4-Nations Cup last week, it shaped a different opinion among the players. Players give their heart and soul while competing and defending their teams for the Stanley Cup, which is the most professional tournament related to ice hockey! But for Matthew, it’s different. Even after winning the 2024 league, he said, “this is a big — the four nations face-off.” 

Jimmy Fallon interviewed the Florida Panthers star in his “The Tonight Show” to discuss the 4-Nations Face-Off. And Matthew revealed the true reasons for putting the recent face-off above the Stanley Cup, calling it a big game he will never forget.

“And just the thing that I’m most proud of with that team was how much pride we showed in representing our country and being Americans. We’re so lucky to be from this great country and to be able to represent,” he stated, and the audience took no moment to cheer with a big round of applause! But hold on; he has more to reveal. 

Fallon emphasized the team’s respect for the nation and said, “Well, it must feel cool to put that jersey on.” And Matthew’s response? Oh, it was quick and firm, as he described it as a whole different feeling to look down and see the USA crest. It’s incredible to him, for he said, “It’s nothing, you know, there’s nothing that’ll beat that.”

This time, he had the chance to wear it with his brother, Brady Tkachuk. Both just elevated the pride of all their kin while representing America together. It was a dream come true. And for the fact, everyone talked about it, and watched it—around 60 million people! It was a big international opportunity for both teams.

For Matthew, it was happening for the first time in his nine-year NHL career, which is why it was more significant than any other league – even if it was about winning the Stanley Cup!

Matthew Tkachuk is USA’s heart and soul

The US-Canada face-off gave a record-breaking set to the NHL fans, who witnessed the greatest shows of all time. It caught nationwide attention with the tournament watched by millions. For USA vs. Canada? It has always been to prove—who’s who! Right from the beginning of the 4 Nations Face-Off, both teams started the real work—defending and smashing!

The first match ended with Canada’s defeat, breaking their long winning streak against the USA. And for the latter, despite losing the final game against Canada, they have proved true to their potential.

Although the rivalry between the two has been so intense, it couldn’t stop itself from getting displayed, even at the rink! The first match witnessed not just one, two, but three. With the Tkachuks brother leading two, followed by JT Miller!

Notably, Matthew initiated the one and got injured, which forbade him to play with the Canadians in the final. The Florida Panther star missed the opportunity to defend his team, and all it made a difference when Connor McDavid hit the last goal in overtime! But was it really just the injury that kept Matthew from making an impact??

Even when Matthew Tkachuk couldn’t physically contribute, his mere presence was enough to make a difference. But how?

Former Canadian legend Mike Johnson pointed this out. He called him magnetic, whose presence itself attracts a sensational spark. And it makes more sense when the head coach, Mike Sullivan, says, “He’s all heart. He’s a heart and soul,” for the team whose mere presence represents hope for the USA.

Safe to say, everyone’s waiting for the next 4 Nation Face-Off tournament.