Tkachuk and Sanderson Return to Senators After Olympic Gold Medal Victory
Ottawa Senators captain Brady Tkachuk and top defenceman Jake Sanderson are set to return to NHL action on Thursday, February 26, following their triumphant gold medal win with Team USA at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan. The dynamic duo participated in extensive celebrations, including a visit to the White House and attendance at the State of the Union address in Washington, before rejoining their Ottawa teammates.
Coach Green Expresses Confidence in Players' Focus
Senators coach Travis Green has voiced unwavering confidence in both players' ability to transition back to regular season play despite the whirlwind of post-Olympic festivities. "It doesn't happen very often," Green remarked following Wednesday's practice session. "I haven't been part of a team that has won a gold medal, but I do know both players well personally, and rightfully so, they're excited about winning gold."
Green emphasized the significance of their achievement while expressing faith in their commitment to the Senators' playoff push. "It's a huge accomplishment. The Americans haven't done it for a long time, and kudos to them for winning. I'm excited for our players that they've had that opportunity. But I also know how badly both players want to win here, so I don't see it being a problem physically."
Potential Fan Reaction Remains Uncertain
The return of Tkachuk and Sanderson to Canadian Tire Centre presents an intriguing scenario regarding fan reception. Their appearance at political events with former U.S. President Donald Trump, a controversial figure in Canadian politics, has raised questions about how Senators supporters will welcome them back.
Tkachuk acknowledged the potential tension in comments to Fox News, stating, "They're not the happiest with me right now. I'm just going to go back and give them everything that I've got. It's a funny feeling when you feel their support every day, and then, within two weeks, you're Public Enemy No. 1."
Despite this acknowledgment, Tkachuk maintained a positive outlook, adding, "I'm going back with a smile on my face, and I'm getting ready for a playoff push."
Post-Olympic Celebrations and Return Timeline
The players' journey back to Ottawa included multiple stops:
- Immediate post-game celebrations in Milan following their overtime victory over Canada
- A gold-medal party in Miami on February 23
- A visit to the Oval Office with President Trump on Tuesday
- Attendance at the State of the Union address on Capitol Hill
- Return to Ottawa on Wednesday, February 25
Both athletes participated in the morning skate at Canadian Tire Centre on Thursday to prepare for their matchup against the Detroit Red Wings. Coach Green deliberately avoided commentary on the players' decision to visit the White House, focusing instead on their readiness for the crucial game.
Playoff Implications and Team Dynamics
The Senators currently find themselves working to close the gap in the Eastern Conference playoff race. Green emphasized that both Tkachuk and Sanderson understand the importance of their roles in this effort. "I do think they're both going to be all in, for sure, for the Ottawa Senators, so I don't worry about that," Green stated confidently.
As the team prepares for their Thursday night contest, all eyes will be on how the returning Olympians perform and how the Ottawa faithful respond to their first home appearance since their gold medal achievement and subsequent political engagements.
