Crucial Chris Tanev Injury Update Before Massive Rivalry Game
Toronto Maple Leafs defenseman Chris Tanev has been sidelined for the past five games due to an upper-body injury, and his availability for Thursday's game has now been clarified.
As the Leafs prepare to face the division-leading Florida Panthers following a critical shootout victory over the Utah Hockey Club, they face a daunting challenge.
The Panthers, with their revamped lineup, may or may not include Brad Marchand, who is also nursing an injury.
However, the Maple Leafs are grappling with their own injury woes. Max Pacioretty's return remains uncertain, Jani Hakanpaa's career could be in jeopardy, and Auston Matthews is reportedly dealing with an injury as well.
Among these, Tanev's absence has been particularly impactful. Missing five consecutive games, the team's most reliable and arguably essential defenseman has left a noticeable void.
Lines at Leafs/St. Pat’s practice
— Mark Masters (@markhmasters) March 12, 2025
Knies - Matthews - Marner
Jarnkrok - Tavares - Nylander
McMann - Laughton - Domi
Lorentz - Kampf - Holmberg
Robertson
McCabe - Ekman-Larsson
Rielly - Carlo
Benoit - Myers
Tanev
Stolarz & Woll
Host Panthers tomorrow@TSN_Sports
Where is Tanev?
Tanev was not among the Top-6 defensemen in recent lineups, a concerning development given that his injury was initially thought to be minor. However, his impending sixth absence raises alarms for both the team and its fans.
Head coach Craig Berube has been vague about Tanev's return timeline, though he hinted that the defenseman is nearing a comeback.
Does not look like Tanev will play tomorrow vs. Panthers (he wasn't part of a regular partner rotation today). The defenceman will only say there is a team medical staff timeline he's sticking to, Berube says he's close but won't venture further.
— Lance Hornby 🇺🇦 (@sunhornby) March 12, 2025
This season, Tanev has contributed 17 points in 57 games, along with exceptional shot-blocking abilities. Paired with Jake McCabe, he has formed one of the NHL's top shutdown defensive pairings.
Tanev's extended absence has been a significant blow, as he has been the stabilizing force on the blue line. Without his leadership, the team has occasionally appeared disorganized. Initially, there were fears of a severe injury when he was seen in a sling after leaving TD Garden Arena following the Bruins game.
However, it was believed he would avoid a lengthy absence. Yet, missing six games is becoming serious, especially with the playoffs approaching and a limited schedule remaining.
If the Leafs can manage to defeat Florida without Tanev, it bodes well for their postseason prospects. However, another poor performance would highlight the urgent need for Tanev's swift return.
Image - Sergei Belski-Imagn
