Oftentimes it can feel like the only thing standing in the National Hockey League’s way is the National Hockey League. Sometimes, though, they manage to get things right. Yesterday was one of those times, with Ottawa Senators forward Brady Tkachuk being named to the all-star team thanks to Auston Matthews’ withdrawal.

Naming a player with 15 goals and 27 points through more than half a season to the all-star game wouldn’t normally be considered a massive public relations win, but that’s exactly what it was in this specific case. The younger Tkachuk will have the opportunity to enjoy the all-star festivities alongside his older brother, Matthew, in their hometown.

It’s a great story for St. Louis, it’s a great story for the Tkachuk family, and it’s a great story for hockey in general. Who could have predicted this when the following photo was taken?

"One day you'll grow up and play in the #NHLAllStar Game like me." - Keith Tkachuk, probably. 💙

(Via @andystrickland) pic.twitter.com/CreVtrAXLn

— NHL (@NHL) January 23, 2020

Things get started for the two brothers tomorrow with the skills competition, where Brady Tkachuk is slated to participate in the “Shooting Stars” event. Ottawa’s other representative, Anthony Duclair, will take part in the fastest skater competition.

Congratulations to Brady on being named to the all-star team. Here’s hoping that the Tkachuk family has the opportunity to enjoy this very cool moment.

As always, thanks for reading.

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