Ottawa Senators captain Brady Tkachuk’s season ended a few weeks ago, but that doesn’t stop him from admiring other players as an attentive spectator. One of them piqued his curiosity, and with good reason, since it’s his own brother, Matthew.

In an interview on the Sportsnet network’s “FAN Morning Show” on Thursday, Keith Tkachuk’s youngest son said the Florida Panthers’ star forward is the one most characterized by his intellect on the ice.

Also read: The new Corey Perry

Also read: Panthers coach sends prominent message to NHL umpires

Also read: The Panthers continue their momentum

“It’s going to sound very biased, but I think he’s the smartest player in the National League,” said the 23-year-old hockey player.

“It’s because of his plays, even in the last game [contre les Maple Leafs de Toronto, mardi]. Just clever little plays where the puck lands in his skates, he throws it onto his stick and suddenly makes a parallel pass to the other end of the rink. It’s just these little games that you don’t see on videos, but when you play them, it’s so hard.”

Get up at the right time

Brady sees his brother more now that the two play in the Atlantic Division. They even got to play the All-Star Game together, something they hadn’t done in ages.

Before Thursday night’s games, Matthew Tkachuk was the second-best scorer in the playoffs with 14 points. He played a big part in eliminating the Boston Bruins in the first round and against the Leafs in Game 1 he added three points to his record.

“He got up and frankly, the Florida Panthers wouldn’t be where they are without Matthew,” Brady said. He does this every day, which is impressive not only as a brother, but for someone in the hockey world to see another take that step forward and reach the next level when it counts.”

Game 2 between the Panthers and the Maple Leafs is scheduled for Thursday night at the Scotiabank Arena.