The Toronto Maple Leafs are set to receive a major boost on the blue line as veteran defenceman Chris Tanev returns to the lineup for Tuesday afternoon's game against the Pittsburgh Penguins. This marks the team's final contest before the NHL's Christmas break.
A Long-Awaited Comeback
Tanev has been sidelined since November 1, when he sustained an upper-body injury during a game against the Philadelphia Flyers. His absence has spanned over seven weeks, limiting him to just eight games played this season. The specific nature of the injury was not disclosed by the team, and there had been speculation that surgery was a potential option for the 36-year-old rearguard.
Head coach Craig Berube confirmed Tanev's return during a terse pre-game media availability, which followed comments on the firing of assistant coach Marc Savard. Berube indicated the decision ultimately rested with Tanev and the medical staff. "(It was about) doctors communicating with him," Berube said. "But ultimately, it comes down to his decision."
Impact on a Struggling Squad
Tanev's return is a bright spot for a Maple Leafs team mired in a deep slump. The club awoke on Tuesday morning in last place in the Eastern Conference, following a Columbus Blue Jackets victory on Monday night. While the team's struggles cannot be attributed to a single player's absence, the correlation between Tanev being out of the lineup and the Leafs' plummet down the standings is notable.
Acquired in free agency prior to the 2024-25 season, Tanev quickly became the linchpin of the Leafs' defence corps. His steadying presence and ability to move the puck were instrumental in Toronto's Atlantic Division title win last season. His six-year contract signaled the organization's long-term commitment to his role.
What Tanev Brings Back
Although it may take a game or two for Tanev to regain his full game rhythm, his immediate impact should be felt in the defensive zone. One of the team's most persistent issues this season has been its struggle to cleanly exit its own end, a area where Tanev excels. His veteran savvy and defensive reliability are assets the Leafs have sorely missed during his extended absence.
The afternoon matchup against Sidney Crosby and the Penguins presents a significant test for the returning defender and the last-place Leafs. All eyes will be on Tanev's minutes and performance as Toronto looks to snap out of its funk and head into the holiday break on a positive note.
More to come…
