"The team has had one game-changing blue-liner since that title, in Borje Salming, so Tanev's play last year was a breath of fresh air to Toronto's defensive core. Signing a 35-year-old defenseman to a six-year deal was risky, so it's unfortunately not surprising that he got hurt this year. Tanev has only played 11 games and it's quite possible that those will be the only 11 games he plays this year, as missing the entire season seems like a serious possibility."
"Since the 6-foot-3, 200 pounder is going to miss serious time and the Leafs are already well out of a playoff position, now seems like the best time to wave the white flag. Obviously we all know that the Boston Bruins hold the team's first-round pick this year, but it is top-five protected. As such, if Toronto can get into that top-five, that could help spark a retool instead of a full rebuild."
"If the Leafs are going to miss the playoffs, they better do everything they can to secure that top-five pick because gifting Boston another top pick would be reminiscent of Dougie Hamilton and Tyler Seguin which is sickening to believe. At least back then, Toronto acquired a All-Star in Phil Kessel, but giving away a top prospect for Brandon Carlo could be end up being one of the worst trades in history."
The Leafs lost a key defensive presence when Chris Tanev suffered a long-term injury after playing only 11 games, making a full-season absence possible. Defensive strength is presented as essential for championship success and Tanev's previous season masked many team deficiencies. A six-year contract for a 35-year-old carried significant risk and the timing of the injury leaves Toronto well outside playoff position. Because the Boston Bruins hold Toronto's first-round pick but it is top-five protected, finishing in the top five could spark a retool rather than a full rebuild. The team is urged to prioritize securing that protected pick.
Read at Editor In Leaf
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