Brady Tkachuk, Senators captain, undergoes thumb surgery
Ottawa Senators captain Brady Tkachuk underwent surgery on his right thumb this Thursday, according to the team’s announcement. The forward is expected to be out of action at least until Thanksgiving, with a recovery time estimated between six and eight weeks.
Tkachuk, 26, made the decision to undergo surgery after consulting a doctor in New York on Wednesday for a second opinion. Sources close to the player indicate that his participation in the Olympic team will not be affected.
The Ottawa captain’s injury occurred in the first period of the 4-1 defeat against the Nashville Predators on Monday. It was the result of a hit by Roman Josi, defenseman for the Predators, who hit him against the boards in an unfavorable manner. Despite the injury, Tkachuk continued playing, although he did not finish the game.
Tkachuk, who led the Senators with 29 goals last season, had three points in the first three games of this season.
The Senators, who managed to qualify for the playoffs last season, have started the season with a 1-3-1 record. The Ottawa team is coming off an 8-4 loss to the Sabres at home on Tuesday, in their first game without Tkachuk.
Tkachuk’s brother, Matthew, is also out of action after undergoing surgery in the offseason. Both players are expected to be key elements for Team USA at the Milan Olympics in February.
