Brady Tkachuk is not just wearing the 'C' for the Ottawa Senators; he's actively shaping a winning culture within the team. Entering his fifth season as captain in 2025-26, Tkachuk's influence extends beyond the scoresheet, impacting the team's mindset and performance.

The 2025 season marked a significant turning point, as Tkachuk led the Senators to their first playoff appearance in eight years. While their playoff run ended in the first round against the Toronto Maple Leafs, the experience ignited a fire within the team and its fanbase. Tkachuk himself emphasized that the taste of playoff hockey has only increased the team's hunger for more.

Tkachuk's evolution as a player is a key factor in the Senators' resurgence. Coach Travis Green has praised Tkachuk's unique blend of skill, power, and personality, calling him "hockey's unicorn". Tkachuk has shifted his focus towards scoring and leading, allowing new acquisitions like Kurtis MacDermid to handle the physical enforcer role. This strategic adjustment enables Tkachuk to exert a more positive influence on his teammates while maintaining a laser focus on achieving tangible results.

His contributions are evident both on and off the ice. Last season, Tkachuk showcased his offensive prowess with clutch goals, including an overtime winner that secured Ottawa's playoff berth. Beyond the game, his community involvement has solidified his role as a leader and role model within the city.

The Senators have started the 2025-26 season with renewed vigor, currently holding a record of 28-22-7. Recently, the Senators edged out the Philadelphia Flyers in overtime with a score of 2-1. Tim Stutzle, who scored the winning goal, credited Tkachuk with the assist. The team's recent performance includes a 7-3-2 record over the last 12 games.

Looking ahead, Tkachuk is also preparing to represent Team USA at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan. He was named to the preliminary roster on June 16, 2025. Tkachuk is determined to win gold, a feat that eluded his father, Keith Tkachuk, who won silver in 2002.

Several of Tkachuk's teammates will also be joining him at the Olympics, including Jake Sanderson. Stutzle will be representing Germany.

As Tkachuk continues to mature as a player and leader, he is instilling a winning mentality within the Ottawa Senators organization. With a blend of skill, determination, and a commitment to his team and community, Brady Tkachuk is leading the charge in Ottawa, teaching the Senators how to win.