Matthew Tkachuk comments on being traded and the process of choosing the Florida Panthers

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Liam
September 9, 2023 (8:43 PM)

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Matthew Tkachuk, drafted 6th overall by the Calgary Flames in 2016, had six good seasons with his original club before being moved in a blockbuster trade to the Florida Panthers. His tenure was characterized by his breakout final year with Calgary, scoring 42 goals, 62 assists, and being integral to the identity of the Flames. However, on the Cam & Strick Podcast, it was confirmed that Tkachuk had no interest in signing with Calgary long-term. As a result, Tkachuck had the opportunity to speak with other teams, and essentially make his own decision on where to go when the Flames decided to accommodate his trade request.

On the podcast, Tkachuk detailed,

With their permission, I was allowed to basically for one week talk to, you know, other teams and figure it out, obviously with their permission and everythingthe three final teams were Florida, Carolina, and St. Louis.

Not every player gets the opportunity that Tkachuk was given, and he's very aware of that, also noting on the podcast, «

I felt very lucky because I basically was a UFA.»

Tkachuk also revealed that although he deeply considered three other teams, he primarily set his sights upon the Florida Panthers. It seems he made the right decision, though, posting an unbelievable first season with the Panthers last year, and being the driving force in the team's run to the Stanley Cup Final. It'll be incredible to see what Tkachuck does this upcoming year in Florida.

Previously on HockeyUnplugged

Rumour: Leafs and Flames may be discussing the framework of a potential blockbuster trade

Lightning terminating contract of recently signed forward

Multi-time Stanley Cup winner hangs up the skates for the final time

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9 SEPTEMBRE \| 338 ANSWERS Matthew Tkachuk comments on being traded and the process of choosing the Florida Panthers Do you think Matthew Tkachuk will have another good season rivaling last years?
Yes	188	55.6 %
No	104	30.8 %
I don't care about Florida	46	13.6 %
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