Watch: Special guest Brady Tkachuk gives a motivating speech to Team USA players after dominant 10-4 win over Germany in 2025 WJC opener

Ottawa Senators captain Brady Tkachuk made a special appearance to inspire Team USA after their impressive 10-4 win over Germany in Thursday's World Junior Hockey Championship opener.

Brady Tkachuk, who represented Team USA in 2018, shared his experience and encouraged the young players. He said:

"There are the memories that you're going to take home and always kind of remember," Tkachuk said to the team. "These events and these moments that everyone steps up for it."

Brady Tkachuk expressed confidence in Team USA, noting that the team is poised to succeed and stating his belief that they will come out on top in the tournament.

"I know everyone on our team, across the league, everybody watches, everybody takes pride in each country," Tkachuk added. "But I know the U.S. boys are going to come out on top."

Watch the video here:

Team USA is one of the prime favorites to win the World Junior Championship and their strong performance in the opening fixture solidifies their status as one of the best teams in the tournament.

James Hagens collected four points, while Gabe Perreault notched three points for the Americans in the win. Team USA will look to defend their title when they face Latvia next on Saturday, December. 28. The puck drops at 3:30 p.m. ET.

Brady Tkachuk has won bronze in WJC

Tkachuk had the opportunity to play for Team USA at the World Junior Championship in 2017, where he settled for a bronze medal. During that tournament, he recorded nine points, including three goals and six assists in seven games.

This time he hopes to bring home gold for America when he and his brother, Matthew Tkachuk, represent the country in the upcoming Four Nations Face-Off tournament.

"I’m very thankful and grateful for this opportunity,” said Brady via NHLPA. To be able play with Matthew is going to be amazing. It’s going to be amazing to be part of this group."

"There are guys who I have played with in the past, so to rekindle those relationships and relive those great memories will be a lot of fun. Then there are the guys who I haven’t played with before that will be a great experience," he added.

The Four Nations Face-Off is scheduled to take place from Feb. 12-20 in Montreal and Boston. Brady Tkachuk and Team USA will hit the ice for their first game against Finland on Feb. 14.