Matthew Tkachuk called disrespectful after unsportsmanlike actions against the Bruins
Photo credit: ESPN screenshot
Matthew Tkachuk did certain things in last night's Panthers game against the Bruins that irked certain players, leading some to call him very disrespectful.
The Florida Panthers started their 2024-25 season off hot on Tuesday evening. Prior to their season-opening contest against the Boston Bruins, they raised their 2024 championship banner to the rafters of Amerant Bank Arena, a moment of pride both for the team and its fans alike. That, however, wasn't the only party starter. Off went the Panthers, scoring six goals and firing up the crowd. Fans even chanted, "We want Swayman," referring to the Bruins' star goalie, who was benched in favor of Linus Ullmark just days after Swayman inked an eight-year, $66 million contract.
Not everyone was having as good a time as Florida's fans, though, and one who was in a particularly frustrating place was Bruins forward Trent Frederic. Frederic said after the 6-4 loss that Tkachuk had challenged him throughout the game but wouldn't fight, instead trying to sucker him into a penalty. It was just more fuel on the fire between Tkachuk, who long has walked the fine line between edgy and sometimes dirty. You can see the tussle between Frederic and Tkachuk below.
Frederic versus Tkachuk tussle
There is nothing new in the way Tkachuk carries himself on the ice. He has garnered himself a very good name for really getting into the heads of his opponents, crossing the line at times. To critics of his game, this is just another example of what some think of his questionable tactics, and it's only the first game of the season. For Frederic, it felt like a cheap trick, and he wasn't happy with how it went down.
Despite all the controversy, Tkachuk did have an impact on the game. He played 16 minutes and 42 seconds, recording an assist. The play was not without infractions, though, as he received a minor penalty for roughing Frederic in the heat of their dispute. It would appear that Tkachuk is not going to change his game anytime soon, even if it angers some other players.
His style has translated into results, as evidenced by his Stanley Cup win. As that reputation grows, so does the target on his back. Does that approach continue to pay dividends, or does the league push harder as the season wears on? Only time will tell.
Previously on HouseOfHockey
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