The Ottawa Senators won’t let outside commentary derail their playoff push, according to head coach Travis Green.
Keith Tkachuk’s recent comments about modern players being “soft” with injuries came up during his sons’ podcast appearance. The former NHL star called it “disgusting” that today’s players won’t play through minor injuries.
His remarks hit close to home for the Senators. The team’s dealt with several injuries during their playoff chase, and goaltender Linus Ullmark recently needed rest before a key game against Tampa Bay.
Here is the full exchange for greater context. Keith Tkachuk comments on players becoming “soft” in dealing with injuries, then brings up Grant Fuhr (goaltender) playing 70 games a season. Brady laughs awkwardly and Matthew quickly tries to change topics. pic.twitter.com/vTTiJ2MsNE
— kaz (@kazGoSensGo) April 1, 2026
Green brushed off any potential distraction from the comments Thursday.
“Do we have some injuries? Yeah, we do. But we’ve never talked about it, we’ve never worried about it, and we’re not gonna do it now,” Green said. “We’re gonna worry about tonight, worry about Buffalo, worry about our teammates – not worry about – no offense – to the white noise and the talk that’s outside of our locker room.”
Asked if he’d spoken to Brady Tkachuk about his father’s podcast appearance, Green said he hadn’t.
“I haven’t seen it. I heard about it. I know Walt (Keith) really well. He’s a friend. I played with him, known him a long time. I know he’s outspoken.”
Green emphasized the team’s focus remains internal.
“I’m not sure exactly what he said. But again, that’s white noise. It doesn’t have any concern of mine or concern of our team.”
The Tkachuk brothers launched their “Wingmen” podcast earlier this season. They became the first active NHL players to start their own show.
Brady and Matthew Tkachuk’s father didn’t hold back during his appearance. Keith specifically mentioned legendary goaltender Grant Fuhr playing 70 games per season as an example of old-school toughness.
The timing creates an awkward situation for Ottawa. The Senators sit two points out of a playoff spot with eight games remaining.
Ottawa snapped a seven-year postseason drought last season but lost in the first round to Boston.
The team faces Buffalo next as they continue their push for the playoffs.
