Matthew Tkachuk
Alternate Captain / Winger
Miami Connection
Tkachuk has boosted South Florida's 'Titletown' status by leading the Panthers to back-to-back Stanley Cups in 2024 and 2025, inspiring local sports fandom. He engages the community as a vocal Miami Hurricanes supporter, advocating for their hockey program and appearing on College GameDay at UM campus. His gold medal win with Team USA at the 2026 Olympics, celebrated at Miami hotspots like E11even, cements his role in elevating regional pride.
About
Matthew Tkachuk, born December 11, 1997, is an American professional ice hockey player drafted sixth overall by the Calgary Flames in 2016. He was traded to the Florida Panthers in July 2022 in a blockbuster deal, signing an eight-year, $76 million contract. With the Panthers, he has won Stanley Cups in 2024 and 2025, serving as alternate captain and key agitator on the ice. Now based in South Florida, he celebrated his 28th birthday there amid injury recovery, skating individually and eyeing the 2026 NHL Winter Classic. Off the ice, he guest-starred on ESPN College GameDay at the University of Miami and was appointed to President Trump's sports, fitness, and nutrition council alongside figures like Wayne Gretzky.