Matthew Tkachuk has brought a lot of drama to the rink. In the first few seconds of the first period in the game between Team USA and Team Canada, the American got into a fight with Brandon Hagel. The crowd had anticipated some physical action, but this early in the match exceeded their expectations.

However, as the game intensified, during the TV timeout, the crowd observed Tkachuk skating circles. Following this, he got out of the rink and headed to the bench. Breaking it down, NHL insider Frank Seravalli shared his thoughts on X: “Looks like Matthew Tkachuk is banged up for Team USA. He’s sitting at the end of the bench and has shook his head a few times – something to monitor if he can’t finish off the game.”

The NHL insider’s points are pretty clear to those who watched the game between Team USA and Canada. Matthew Tkachuk was doing more than just skating around and nudging the puck alongside. He was all over the place and getting physical with anyone attempting a potential play. Being so invested is exhausting, for sure. But the way Tkachuk reacted on the rink was all the more cause for concern.

After making rounds during the TV timeout, he went at it for some plays but shortly made his way to the bench. During the final minutes of the third period, he was engaged in a conversation with coaches Mike Sullivan and John Tortorella. Matthew Tkachuk’s disoriented state has become worrisome for fans and the team, who have a lot ahead on their plate in the 4 Nations Face-Off.

Tkachuk has been a vital player in Team USA’s quest for power in the 4 Nations Face-Off. If you remember his plays in the previous game against the Fins, you’ll know what we are talking about. Out of the 6 goals scored by the American squad, Tkachuk had two goals, both of which came in the third period. He also assisted on another goal, scored by his brother Brady. Now, if he sustains any injury, it might be disastrous for Team USA. But is there any word from Matthew himself?

Matthew Tkachuk sends out an update

The moment the game ended between Team USA and Canada, many scrambled to hear from Matthew Tkachuk directly regarding his condition. NHL analyst David Pagnotta conveyed the American forward’s message on X, “He adds he’s doing ok. ‘No concern.“ Though this puts speculations regarding Tkachuk’s health to rest, his future in the 4-Nations tournament still remains shrouded until there is official word confirming his fitness.

Fans expect to see him on the rink against Team Sweden when the next game availability list is released. For now, Team USA is at the top of the table with six points. They won against Canada with a score of 3-1, and this particular victory has ensured that the American squad’s spot in the finals of the face-off. Now, who they will be competing against is yet to be determined.

On Monday, two games await to happen. The afternoon period will feature Team Canada and Finland, and the night period will feature Team USA and Sweden. With expectations riding high on each team, we cannot wait to see the face of the final contenders. This is a nail biting cliff hanger for sure. Do tell us, who are you rooting for?