Ottawa Senators captain Brady Tkachuk underwent successful thumb surgery, sidelining him for six to eight weeks. This decision ensures his full recovery for the NHL season and the 2026 Winter Olympics. The timely surgery benefits both the Senators and Team USA, with Tkachuk and his brother Matthew poised to lead the American squad. Ottawa Senators captain Brady Tkachuk has undergone successful surgery on his right thumb after suffering an injury earlier this week against the Nashville Predators. While the setback will keep him out for six to eight weeks, the long-term outlook may actually benefit both the Senators and Team USA ahead of the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan.
A tough break for Ottawa, but the right call for recovery
Tkachuk sustained the injury on October 13 after being cross-checked into the boards by Predators defenseman Roman Josi during the first period. Although he initially returned to the ice, he was unable to finish the game. Following medical evaluation, doctors determined that surgery was the best route to ensure full healing before the heart of the NHL season and before the Winter Olympics.The Senators announced that Tkachuk is expected to return in mid-December. Though that’s a blow for Ottawa’s short-term playoff push, the decision to have surgery now helps avoid the risk of aggravating the injury with an early return. If Tkachuk had opted for rehabilitation alone, a setback could have jeopardized his Olympic participation entirely.
Team USA remains in strong position ahead of Milan 2026
For Team USA, Tkachuk’s surgery comes as a relief rather than a setback. Both Brady and his brother, Florida Panthers star Matthew Tkachuk, were among the first six players named to the U.S. men’s Olympic hockey team. The brothers made waves earlier this year at the 4 Nations Face-Off, where their physical play and leadership set the tone for a fiery clash against Canada.Matthew, who underwent offseason surgery for a hernia and torn adductor muscle, is also expected to be back by December. That means both Tkachuk brothers will have several months to regain full form before representing Team USA in its first Olympic appearance since 2014.Also Read: Carter Hart drops a bold message to Mitch Marner and his new Golden Knights teammates upon his long-awaited returnTheir father, Keith Tkachuk, represented Team USA in four Olympic Games and won silver in 2002, a legacy his sons are poised to continue. With Brady taking the smart path toward long-term recovery, Team USA’s forward depth and leadership look stronger than ever heading into Milan 2026.