Matthew Tkachuk receives online backlash after playing in only six minutes during the 4 Nations Final
was once again riding the bench for most of last night's game as he aggravated a previous injury, and he's facing a lot of heat online for this.
Matthew Tkachuk's availability posed a huge challenge to Team USA in the 4 Nations Face-Off final match against Canada, as the star forward found himself forced to withdraw from the contest because of what appeared to be an injury.
Tkachuk missed seven minutes in the second period and did not return for the third or overtime, logging just 6:47 of ice time.
Though USA Hockey has not disclosed details, The Athletic's Michael Russo reported he limped "badly" out of the arena afterward.
The injury appeared to become apparent in the tournament matchup against Canada, causing his missed play in the following game against the Swedish team last Monday.
In terms of his health, his brother, Brady Tkachuk, stressed his toughness, saying that he played during last year's Stanley Cup Finals despite having a fractured sternum, which is not something easy to do.
"Obviously he battles through absolutely everything, and, yeah, I don't think it's too good. I guess we'll have to wait and see what ends up happening, but I know he was really disappointed," Tkachuk said, per Russo.
Matthew Tkachuk dealing with hate posts online
Even with his resolve, some fans online are really complaining at Tkachuk's insistence to stand his ground instead of giving up his spot to a healthier opponent.
Holding back a healthy player from playing because you think you're good to go, only to miss most of the game, is not sitting right with the American people.
Matthew had a goal and an assist in the tournament and, during an interview with Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman, referred to the championship final against Canada as the most defining in his lifetime, prior to puck drop.
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