Toronto Maple Leafs defenceman Chris Tanev has taken a significant stride in his journey back to the ice, participating in his first full-contact practice on Monday. This development is a welcome sign for a team struggling to find its footing in the standings.
A Positive Step Forward for the Veteran Defenceman
Tanev, who has been sidelined since November 1 with an upper-body injury, will not be in the lineup for Tuesday's game against the Chicago Blackhawks. However, his outlook was optimistic after shedding the non-contact red jersey and fully integrating into practice drills.
"It's a very fluid situation," Tanev stated. "We're going to go day by day, see how things are progressing. I'm really happy to be out there with the team and be a full participant."
When questioned about the possibility of Tanev returning to game action before the Christmas break, head coach Craig Berube offered a measured response. "Good question. It would be great. But we'll see," Berube said, indicating the team will proceed with caution.
Injury Details and a Welcome Reunion
Tanev remained tight-lipped about the specifics of the injury, which occurred on a "weird, fluke hit" from Philadelphia Flyers forward Matvei Michkov. The collision was severe enough to require Tanev to be stretchered off the ice. He declined to confirm whether surgery was ever considered as a treatment option.
"You always think about [long-term health] initially when that happens," Tanev explained. "You talk to doctors and you have to determine the next steps, and what's best for yourself. I want to thank our docs and our trainers and the people in Philly for really taking care of me."
A silver lining during his recovery was the Leafs' acquisition of defenceman Troy Stecher off waivers from the Edmonton Oilers on November 15. Tanev, who counts Stecher as one of his best friends and was in his wedding party, was thrilled by the move.
"When I learned that we were going to get him, I was pretty pumped up for him to get a new opportunity," Tanev said, praising his friend's work ethic. "He isn't flashy, but he works like he's double the size that he actually is. He has done such a good job for us."
Other Team Updates as Leafs Seek Stability
In other team news, goaltender Joseph Woll could be in line to make his first start since suffering an injury on December 4 against the Carolina Hurricanes. Berube confirmed there is "a chance" Woll will play against the Blackhawks.
Meanwhile, forward Matias Maccelli was absent from practice due to illness. Maccelli has been a healthy scratch for the past seven consecutive games.
The potential return of a stabilizing presence like Tanev on the blue line represents a critical boost for the Maple Leafs as they look to reverse their recent fortunes and climb back up the NHL standings.
