This season, the Florida Panthers have undergone a significant transformation under the leadership of Bill Zito. However, the decision to replace Andrew Brunette with Paul Maurice as head coach initially backfired, causing the team to lose their edge from the previous season, along with key players Mackenzie Weeger and Jonathan Huberdeau.
To revitalize the team, Zito brought in Matthew Tkachuk, a prominent veteran player, and his father Keith Tkachuk, who publicly criticized the team for being soft. Matthew took his father's comments to heart and showed his aggression in a game against the Ottawa Senators.
In the second period, Tkachuk delivered a blind-side hit that sent Alex DeBrincat tumbling to the ice. Although the hit was dangerous, Tkachuk was not penalized and DeBrincat was fortunately not seriously injured, returning to the game later.
After the hit, Tkachuk refused to engage in a fight with DeBrincat or answer to the incident, in keeping with his reputation. The referees ultimately ejected both players, leaving Tkachuk with a poor image as someone who avoids fighting, despite being the son of Keith Tkachuk, a renowned fighter during his playing career.
