Senators captain Brady Tkachuk reveals target date for return from thumb injury

Brady Tkachuk cannot wait to take his first shift back with the Ottawa Senators and believes he’ll be close to making his return.

In the latest edition of his “Wingmen” podcast with brother Matthew, released on Wednesday, Brady said that he is targeting American Thanksgiving as when he expects to be back on the ice.

“I’ve got a doctor’s appointment in the next couple of days and I’m excited to hear what he has to say for me,” Tkachuk said on the podcast. “Hopefully, everything is all clear to go out there to battle and compete.

“Hopefully, around Thanksgiving we’re back, and we’re ready to rock.”

Tkachuk skated with the team at practice last week as he continues to work his way back from thumb surgery. The timeline for recovery was around six to eight weeks.

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The 26-year-old hasn’t played since undergoing surgery on his right hand on Oct. 16. In three games this season, Tkachuk has three assists.

The injury occurred when he was cross-checked into the boards by Nashville Predators defenceman Roman Josi.

The Senators have done their best to stay in the mix with Tkachuk out, sitting fifth in the Atlantic Division with a 9-6-4 record, just three points back of the division lead.

Tkachuk knows the moment he gets back, he’ll be

“Boy, am I just itching for that first shift,” Tkachuk said. “I can’t wait to be F1 four times.”