Keith Tkachuk is one in a long list of great American power-forwards that includes Kevin Stevens and John LeClair. Tkachuk is a three-time Olympian, earning a silver with Team U.S.A. after losing a tough gold medal game with Team Canada in 2002, a member of the 1998 team, and the fourth place 1992 Olympic team.
Tkachuk was also a physical force in helping Team U.S.A. claim the World Cup of Hockey in 1996. In 2004 Tkachuk and the Americans tried to defend their World Cup title but were unable to do so despite his scoring five goals in five games. The burly winger scored five goals and one assist while compiling 44 minutes in penalties. Tkachuk was also an offensive threat in two different World Junior Championships, scoring six goals and three assists on the fourth place 1990-91 team and scoring three goals and four assists on the bronze medal winning 1991-92 Team U.S.A.
In his professional career Tkachuk has been an aggressive force with a knack for the net. He has played for the Winnipeg Jets / Phoenix Coyotes franchise and the St. Louis Blues. Perhaps one of his greatest assets is his consistency. Tkachuk has reached the 30 goal plateau on eight occasions and has twice been named to the NHL Second All-Star Team. |