Florida Panthers star Matthew Tkachuk explained how he managed to continue playing in Games 3 and 4 of the Stanley Cup Final after suffering a broken sternum.
Speaking at the Panthers' end-of-season media availabilities, Tkachuk said he "knew something was off" right after getting hit by Vegas Golden Knights forward Keegan Kolesar in the first period of Game 3.
After trying to play during a power play, Tkachuk retreated to the locker room to have x-rays and undergo concussion protocol. He returned in the second period and the Panthers took Game 3 with a 3-2 overtime win but he suffered the consequences of getting back to the ice.
"The next few days were pretty tough, just getting in and out of bed," Tkachuk said. "I needed help getting onto the table here to get treatment but everybody played a huge part to play (Game 4).
"My brother was staying with me and had to get me out of bed, get me dressed, get me to the rink and I had guys tie my skates and put on my jersey, just helping me with everything. So I'm happy that I was able to attempt and play that game but I knew I wasn't myself."
Tkachuk added that despite the loss in the final, he can at least "hold my head high and know that I did everything possible to try to play."
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