Unfortunately for the Leafs, and Leaf fans who were hoping to add the physical, shot-blocking specialist to a shaky blueline, Tanev was injured in Calgary's game last night against the Colorado Avalanche. Just fifteen seconds into the game, Avalanche forward Ross Colton hit Tanev into the boards from behind. The hit didn't look nearly as dangerous as the hits we saw over the weekend from Evander Kane or Nick Cousins, but Tanev went into the boards with his arms in an awkward position as he attempted to play the puck, unable to brace himself.
Tanev fell to the ice like in clear distress and after a few seconds was able to get up under his own power and skate to the bench. He did require help down the tunnel and after a lengthy visit with trainers, did not return to the game. Flames head coach Ryan Huska was unable to provide an update on the 33-year-old following the game either, which typically is not good news.
With the uncertainty surrounding Tanev, who will likely miss the Flames game tonight against the Vegas Golden Knights, the Leafs and Brad Treliving may have to turn their attention elsewhere to shore up their blueline and add the physical presence he has been looking for.
POLL | ||
DECEMBRE 12 | 436 ANSWERS Leafs recieve upsetting news regarding their top trade target Was the hit on Tanev dirty? | ||
No, Tanev put himself in an awkward spot | 188 | 43.1 % |
Yes, it was all numbers | 248 | 56.9 % |
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