Florida Panthers forward Brady Tkachuk is looking forward to a "special game" Wednesday as he returns to Ottawa to face the Senators for the first time.
"I am definitely putting no expectations on it," Tkachuk said Monday, according to NHL.com's George Richards. "If they boo, well, it just shows the passion that they have for their team, their city. I loved playing in front of them because of that passion. Just know I gave every ounce of blood, sweat, and tears for that team, that city, for eight years. I can hold my head up high for the effort that I gave. I just appreciate all that they have done for me and making me who I am today."
Tkachuk was drafted by Ottawa and played eight seasons with the Senators, captaining the team for five. He requested a trade this offseason and was dealt to the Panthers, where he joined his older brother, Matthew Tkachuk.
Brady was named the NHL's First Star of the Week on Monday after recording back-to-back hat tricks and nine points in three games last week.
The 27-year-old hopes to use the emotion of Wednesday night to his benefit.
"It is going to be emotional both individually and in the building," Tkachuk said. "I just want to be able to channel that and use it in the right areas. It's going to be special being back there. I spent eight years there and have a lot of great memories. The city made me who I am. It's going to be a special game."
The Panthers and Senators both have 12 points through nine games this season.
