The Daily: Keith Tkachuk Says Sons are ‘Lunatics’; Avs Woes

A case can be made that the final piece of USA becoming a hockey heavyweight power came with the arrival of Bill Guerin and Keith Tkachuk in the 1990s.

Before then, USA boasted impact defensemen, highly skilled centers and goaltending. What they lacked were elite power forwards who could compete along the boards with the relentless Canadians.

Guerin and Tkachuk changed that. They played a major role in helping USA win the 1996 World Cup.

That’s why it is only fitting that Tkachuk’s sons are now leading the physical charge for USA in the 4 Nations Faceoff. Both Matthew and Brady Tkachuk sent a message with fights in the opening second of USA’s 3-1 win.

“Those two are lunatics,” Keith said. “I don’t know what to tell you. They’re great kids off the ice, but on the ice, you know, they’re funny. I love the personality. I think it’s great.”

Brady and Matthew Tkachuk mic'd up in the box after their fights.

They got each other's approval.pic.twitter.com/UAf6ogCzG7

— Jonny Lazarus (@JLazzy23) February 16, 2025

What nobody can dispute: the Tkachuk boys play like their father who combined goal-scoring ability with a physical presence.

Keith Tkachuk was the ultimate team player, willing to do whatever  necessary in the name of team success. His sons do the same.

The Americans, already guaranteed a spot in Thursday’s tournament championship game, play Sweden today (8 p.m., TNT).

Red Wings In Case You Missed It

Bob Duff looks back at the Red Wings-North Stars Valentine’s Day Massacre.

Teammates Lucas Raymond and Dylan Larkin will play against each other tonight at 4 Nations Face-off.

Larkin is an impact player for USA at the 4 Nations Face-off.

Red Wings Extra

The Grand Rapids Griffins, the loser in five of their last six games, don’t play again until Wednesday when they are home against Lehigh Valley. Defenseman Antti Tuomisto continues to perform well for the Griffins. He leads all defenseman with 20 points in 43 games. Even with the team struggling, the 6-foot-5 Finn also plus-6 over the past 14 games. He has only had two minus games in his past 14.

Hockey Now Network

Colorado: Colleen Flynn answers questions about Casey Mittelstadt’s struggles as the Avalanche’s No. 2 center. He isn’t playing hurt. Colorado Avalanche.

Pittsburgh: In Shelly Anderson’s Penguins Wrap, she looks at Sidney Crosby’s moments and the team’s prospects. Pittsburgh Penguins. 

San Jose: Sharks pay tribute to a 65-year-old Recreation League goalie. San Jose Sharks.