Matthew Tkachuk responds to a challenge from Shaq on the TNT panel!

The National Hockey League has a seen a great opportunity in the growing stardom of Florida Panthers star forward Matthew Tkachuk and on Saturday night both the NHL and TNT looked to exploit that growing fame by featuring Tkachuk on the TNT panel ahead of an NBA playoff game.

That game is of course tonight's Game 6 between the NBA's Boston Celtics and Miami Heat, with Tkachuk ostensibly being featured because of the South Florida connection between the Panthers and the Heat. Tkachuk was interviewed by the panel which included NBA legends Shaquille O'Neal and Charles Barkley and conducted himself well while promoting the sport we all love.

"It really has been incredible for me," said Tkachuk of his team's run to the Stanley Cup Finals. "The fact that I'm sitting here with you guys and getting ready to play in the Stanley Cup Final at my first ever Heat game, it's storybook for South Florida."

Asked about the positive influence his father has had on him, Tkachuk did his father proud by repeating the values that Keith Tkachuk instilled in his boys.

"He always said two things to me, compete and be a good teammate," revealed Tkachuk. "Treat the trainers right, be great to everybody at the rink, didn't matter what type of job they had. I think that's one thing that helped me right away when I came to the NHL and has had the biggest influence on me."

Tkachuk also agreed with the panel when they suggested his father should be in the Hall of Fame.

"Yes, I agree," said Tkachuk when it was suggested his father should be in the Hall.

Last but not least, the biggest man on the panel challenged Tkachuk to do something special for him the next time he drops the gloves.

"One thing if you get into a fight I want you to nail somebody and say 'This is for you Shaq!'" said O'Neal with a laugh.

Tkachuk quickly agreed.

"I will," said Tkachuk through a laugh.