Chris Tanev Heads to the Dressing Room After Painful Shot Block: Latest Update
Maple Leafs defenseman Chris Tanev left Saturday night's game against the New York Rangers after blocking a shot.
The Toronto Maple Leafs signed Chris Tanev this summer in order to be the backbone of a new defensive identity and so far this season has been one of the bright spots, giving Toronto his brand of elite shutdown play coupled with another intimidating presence on the ice.
Unfortunately for Tanev, he suffered an injury on Saturday night and it's unclear the extent of it. During the New York Rangers vs. Toronto Maple Leafs game, Tanev went low to block a shot from Rangers forward Mika Zibanejad and was slow to get up, needing to be helped to the dressing room:
It's unclear what the injury is as of this writing, however it can't be good for Toronto to lose their defenseman not only in a game where they need to keep the momentum rolling, but potentially long-term and throw a wrench into Toronto's playoff plans. Signed this summer to a six-year contract, Tanev was expected to be the main defensive option in Toronto, and brings a fresh face to a Maple Leafs defensive corps that was desperate for a change.
Last season, Tanev had a slow year with only five points in 19 games, however had 11 straight seasons with double-digit points including a surprising season with Calgary where he scored six goals and 22 assists in what would both be career highs.
Toronto is currently losing the game 2-0 to New York to add insult to Tanev's injury. Once we have more information we will update you on the status of Chris Tanev.
Update: Chris Tanev returns to the game in the third period
Maple Leafs defenseman Chris Tanev returns to the ice after blocking a shot in the second period.
More details to come.
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