Four Ottawa Senators made their Olympic debuts on Day 2 of the men’s hockey tournament in Milano-Cortina - and each one left a mark. Brady Tkachuk, Jake Sanderson, Tim Stützle, and Lars Eller all suited up for their respective countries, bringing NHL-caliber skill and intensity to the international stage. Let’s break down how each of them fared in their first taste of Olympic action.
Brady Tkachuk (USA)
If you were wondering how Brady Tkachuk would handle the Olympic spotlight, he answered that question within seconds of his first shift. The American power forward wasted no time setting the tone, delivering a thunderous hit on Latvia’s Uvis Balinskis in the corner. Classic Tkachuk - physical, fearless, and fully engaged from the drop of the puck.
Then came the offense.
On his very next shift, Brady took a pass from his brother Matthew Tkachuk during a regroup and wasted no time - he wired a wrist shot off the right post and in to open the scoring for Team USA. The chemistry between the Tkachuk brothers was on full display all game long, with Jack Eichel centering the top line. It’s a trio loaded with skill and grit, and they looked like they’ve been playing together for years.
Tkachuk continued to make his presence felt. Late in the first period, he nearly added another point after a point-blank chance from the slot, with Matthew nearly burying the rebound.
But his signature moment came midway through the second. In a span of 15 seconds, Tkachuk delivered a massive hit on Janis Jaks to force a turnover, drove the puck to the net for a high-danger chance, and then, while falling to the ice, wrapped the puck around for a highlight-reel goal. It was a sequence that captured everything Tkachuk brings to the table - physicality, offensive instincts, and relentless effort.
He finished the game with a goal, three shots on goal, a plus-1 rating, and 15:33 of ice time. Team USA rolled to a 5-1 win over Latvia, and Tkachuk was a big reason why.
Jake Sanderson (USA)
Jake Sanderson may not have lit up the scoresheet, but his performance was exactly what you want from a steady, reliable defenseman - especially in a tournament where depth on the blue line can make all the difference.
Sanderson isn’t running either of Team USA’s power-play units, and he’s not on the penalty kill. Instead, he’s logging even-strength minutes alongside Zach Werenski on the third pairing. That’s less a reflection of his ability and more a testament to just how deep this American D corps is.
Against Latvia, Sanderson quietly went about his business, playing a clean, composed game. He was especially solid in his own zone, holding his own against Latvia’s top line. Late in the second period, he blocked a shot and immediately transitioned the puck up ice - a play that sparked the rush leading to Brock Nelson’s goal that made it 4-1.
He finished with two shots on goal and 16:28 of ice time - a solid Olympic debut for the 21-year-old blue liner.
Tim Stützle (Germany)
After Leon Draisaitl opened the scoring for Germany, Tim Stützle decided it was time to put on a show of his own.
The 24-year-old forward made his Olympic debut count in a big way. Falling to one knee, Stützle hammered home a one-timer glove side on Frederik Andersen, finishing off a perfect centering feed from JJ Peterka. It was the kind of goal that showcased both his elite skill and his ability to finish under pressure - a snapshot of why he’s become such a dynamic force in the NHL.
Lars Eller (Denmark)
While the article didn’t detail Eller’s full stat line or highlight moment, his presence in the Danish lineup speaks volumes. A veteran of the international stage and a Stanley Cup champion, Eller brings leadership and experience to a Danish squad looking to make noise in a tough tournament field. His impact may not always show up on the scoresheet, but make no mistake - he’s a stabilizing force on and off the ice.
Final Thoughts
Four Senators, four Olympic debuts, and plenty of reasons for Ottawa fans to be excited. Tkachuk brought the fire and flair for Team USA, Sanderson showed poise and promise on the blue line, Stützle delivered a highlight-reel goal for Germany, and Eller added veteran savvy for Denmark.
The Winter Olympics are just heating up, and if Day 2 was any indication, these Senators are ready to make a serious impact on the world stage.