Indianapolis, IN – July 5, 2025
In a twist that has sports fans across the nation doing a double-take, Matthew Tkachuk, known predominantly as an NHL All-Star with the Florida Panthers, has somehow made headlines — this time connected to the Indiana Pacers of the NBA.
Yes, you read that correctly. Tkachuk, never one to stay in a single lane, has once again shocked the sports world by announcing he will join the Indiana Pacers as a part-time player development consultant and cultural advisor — a role that has absolutely floored the basketball world, including Pacers head coach Rick Carlisle.
“Wait… what?” Carlisle reportedly said upon hearing the news mid-practice. “I had to read the press release three times. Matthew Tkachuk? The hockey guy? I thought it was a prank.”
But it’s no prank.
In a joint announcement issued by the Pacers organization and Tkachuk’s management team, the Florida Panthers forward confirmed he will be working with the Pacers during the NHL offseason to help infuse what he calls “elite-level grit, locker room chemistry, and competitive edge” into the NBA franchise — a move that has been met with a mix of confusion, curiosity, and applause.
“I’ve always loved basketball. Played it growing up. Watched guys like Reggie Miller and Paul George light it up,” Tkachuk said in a video message posted to the Pacers’ social media. “When the opportunity came to bring some of that hockey edge to the hardwood, I said — why not?”
The unconventional partnership reportedly came to life after a casual conversation between Tkachuk and Pacers guard Tyrese Haliburton at a charity event earlier this year. What began as friendly banter about leadership and team culture quickly evolved into something more formal.
Haliburton, who was present during the announcement, seemed thrilled. “We need guys like that in our locker room — energy, accountability, that fire,” he said. “Even if he can’t dunk, I want him in the building.”
While Tkachuk will not suit up or participate in on-court drills (though he jokingly offered to “throw a screen or two”), his influence is expected to focus on mental toughness, competitive mindset, and building team unity — something he’s long been praised for in NHL circles.
Coach Rick Carlisle, after recovering from the initial shock, seems to be on board.
“It’s unorthodox, sure,” Carlisle admitted. “But sometimes, culture comes from unexpected places. If Tkachuk can bring even a fraction of his locker room leadership and competitive DNA, it’s worth the shot.”
Reactions online have been wild, with some calling the move “genius-level cross-training” and others wondering if Tkachuk is laying the groundwork for a post-hockey career in sports leadership or entertainment.
The NHL and Florida Panthers have acknowledged the announcement, confirming that Tkachuk’s role with the Pacers will not interfere with his hockey obligations and does not violate league agreements.
Tkachuk, as always, had the last word.
“Look, whether it’s dropping gloves or dropping dimes — I’m here to win,” he said with a wink. “Let’s get the Pacers a ring.”
