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Ottawa Senators' emotional leader and team captain Brady Tkachuk returns to the lineup against the San Jose Sharks in his first game since the 4 Nations Face-Off.
Tkachuk made headlines during the 4 Nations as a physical leader and an offensive workhorse for Team USA. The forward had three goals in four games, including a game-tying goal in the championship game.
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If Tkachuk plays at the same level or anything close to it, key breakout passes are needed from the Sharks. He won't avoid finishing checks along the boards during a forecheck.
The Senators captain hit long-time San Jose rival Drew Doughty very hard multiple times throughout the tournament.
The Senators are also expected to get two key centers back into their lineup: Shane Pinto and former San Jose Sharks first-round pick in 2017, Josh Norris.
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