The last moments of Canada’s exciting 4-3 win against the Czech Republic had just passed when a different kind of conflict started away from the ice.
In the hallway outside the locker rooms, a group of microphones gathered around Brady and Matthew Tkachuk, as if they knew something big was about to happen.
Brady quickly stated that he wanted Canada to watch in heartbreak as his team lifted the trophy.
Matthew jumped in with a stronger comment, saying that Canada’s famous hockey history was just an old story that didn’t scare anyone anymore.
Before long, those remarks spread quickly on social media, sparking anger all the way from Vancouver to Halifax.
News shows kept showing the clips over and over, making the hurt feel worse with each replay.
Inside Canada’s locker room, the happy energy from the close victory slowly gave way to a thick silence.
Players who had just celebrated together began to look at their phones, taking in the disrespect.
Coaches exchanged quick looks but remained silent, knowing that their leadership would be important in the next few moments.
In the middle of the room, Connor McDavid sat calmly, taking off his skates.
He had heard the remarks.
He had noticed the headlines appearing in real time.
However, unlike many stars in his position, he didn’t rush to speak into a microphone.
He didn’t post a reply on social media.
He simply stood still, took a breath, and waited.
When reporters finally came over, the questions were fast and heavy.
What did he think about the insults?
Did the Tkachuks go too far?
Was this now a personal matter?
McDavid paused long enough for the room to fall completely silent.
His face showed no sign of anger or amusement.
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