Bill Guerin Hopes for Matthew Tkachuk for the Olympics
PLYMOUTH, Michigan – Team USA general manager Bill Guerin has expressed his confidence in Matthew Tkachuk’s participation in the upcoming Olympic Games in February. “We are planning and expecting him to be available,” Guerin stated. Guerin added that, although the situation could change, Tkachuk is currently on the list and will remain there until necessary. The Panthers’ star forward underwent surgery this summer to treat a persistent injury, and is expected to miss the start of the NHL season. Tkachuk was the only member of the Four Nations team from Team USA who did not attend this week’s Olympic orientation camp in Plymouth, Michigan. Guerin revealed that Tkachuk recently called him to give him an update on his status.Tkachuk suffered an adductor muscle injury and a sports hernia during the Four Nations tournament, which forced him to miss most of the last game against Canada and the last 25 games of the NHL regular season. He returned for Game 1 of the playoffs and scored 23 points in 23 games, as the Panthers won their second consecutive Stanley Cup. His brother, Brady Tkachuk, commented that Matthew feels good and that they have been in constant contact. Panthers general manager Bill Zito is part of Guerin’s management staff for Team USA. Guerin emphasized Matthew’s importance to the American team. Matthew Tkachuk was one of the first six players named to the U.S. team, along with his brother Brady Tkachuk, Auston Matthews, Jack Eichel, Quinn Hughes, and Charlie McAvoy. Teams must submit their final rosters in early January. Each team is entitled to 25 roster spots, two more than in the Four Nations tournament. Team USA coach Mike Sullivan highlighted Tkachuk’s importance to the team, noting his competitive spirit and dedication to his teammates. Brady Tkachuk hopes his brother will be in top form after surgery. The Tkachuk brothers stood out in the tournament for Team USA, including organizing several confrontations in the first game against Canada. Matthew Tkachuk stated that the fights aimed to send a message that the United States would not be intimidated by its biggest rival. Canada won the Four Nations tournament after defeating the United States in overtime in the final. Olympic hockey prohibits fighting. NHL players return to the Olympics for the first time in 12 years. For the Americans, the first Olympic gold medal since the “Miracle on Ice” of 1980 is at stake.He told me what was going on, and it wouldn’t be good for him to get on a plane and fly right now. So he didn’t need to be here. But he was optimistic. He’s always optimistic.
Bill Guerin
