Ottawa Senators owner Michael Andlauer believes Brady Tkachuk's family played a role in him wanting out and ending up with the Florida Panthers.
"Blood is thicker than water, and let's just say that his father and his brother got in his kitchen," Andlauer told The Athletic's Pierre LeBrun, referring to incoming Hall of Fame inductee Keith and Panthers forward Matthew. "Ultimately, the decision was made to go and play with his brother. It's a decision that was out of our control to a certain degree. But you have to want to play for Ottawa. And right to the end, our fans were behind Brady, even after Team USA won gold. I have no doubt in my mind."
The Senators traded Brady Tkachuk to the Panthers in June for a package that included three first-round picks. Tkachuk, who had been Ottawa's captain for five seasons, said after the trade that his decision "wasn't about" his brother on their "Wingmen" podcast.
Andlauer called a potential further exodus of American players from the Senators "overhyped."
"We've got Tyler Kleven and Shane Pinto as well, who are Americans, and they're very important pieces of our organization," Andlauer said. "I feel strongly that they're all Senators. They have the culture of caring.
"And with Jake (Sanderson), first of all, his father (former NHLer Geoff) is a proud Canadian. Jake, for the most part, grew up in Calgary. Don't compare Jake to Brady. What a privilege to have Jake Sanderson on our hockey club."
Andlauer appreciates what Tkachuk did in Ottawa despite his controversial exit.
"In his eight years with the Ottawa Senators, and during his time as captain, he was an exemplary captain for us and leader and role model," Andlauer said. "He cared about the community. He and his wife, Emma, did more than any other player. The Boys and Girls Club, he cared deeply. And the fans knew it. Our fans are loyal, and they're intelligent. And they loved Brady."
