Matthew Tkachuk on Chris Kreider trying to throw his mouthguard into the crowd: ‘I told him that was the best play he made all game’

Matthew Tkachuk Jokes About Chris Kreider Incident During Playoffs

The New York Rangers and Florida Panthers are currently engaged in a heated playoff series, with tensions rising as each game passes. The latest incident involves a playful yet bizarre interaction between Matthew Tkachuk and Chris Kreider during Game 4 of the Eastern Conference Finals.

During a scrum along the boards, Kreider unexpectedly ripped Tkachuk’s mouthguard out of his mouth and then attempted to throw it into the Panthers crowd as a souvenir. However, Kreider’s memory conveniently faded when questioned about the incident after the game. Despite his efforts, the mouthguard only went straight up and landed back on the ground, avoiding any potential penalties under NHL rules.

In a humorous response to the incident, Tkachuk jokingly praised Kreider, stating that throwing the mouthguard was the best play he made all game. Tkachuk, a known mouthguard chewer during games, shared that such thefts are not uncommon but usually end with the mouthguard being returned. Reflecting on the situation, Tkachuk mentioned that he only has one mouthguard and had to quickly clean it before using it again.

As the playoff series continues, the lighthearted exchange between Tkachuk and Kreider adds a touch of humor to the intense competition on the ice. With both teams vying for a spot in the Stanley Cup Finals, unexpected moments like this showcase the unique camaraderie and sportsmanship among players, even in the midst of fierce rivalry.

The incident serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of playoff hockey and the entertaining anecdotes that emerge both on and off the ice. As fans eagerly await the outcome of the series, Tkachuk and Kreider’s playful exchange will undoubtedly be remembered as a memorable highlight in the midst of intense playoff action.