"It has been a frustrating season for Tanev, who has already missed significant time due to an upper-body injury earlier in the year. The latest setback is a major loss for the Leafs, as Tanev has only appeared in 11 games this season but quickly established himself as a stabilizing presence on the back end. His ability to play tough defensive minutes, kill penalties, and match up against top players has been missed whenever he's been out of the lineup."
"With Tanev unavailable, the Leafs' defensive depth will be tested once again. The good news is that Brandon Carlo is expected to return to the lineup soon, which should help address some of Toronto's defensive issues. Carlo's return could provide much-needed structure and reliability, but expecting him to single-handedly solve the Leafs' blue-line problems may be unrealistic. Other defencemen will need to elevate their play, particularly in high-pressure situations, to help compensate for Tanev's absence."
Chris Tanev will be sidelined long-term after suffering a lower-body injury against the Detroit Red Wings, marking another significant absence in a season already interrupted by an earlier upper-body injury. Tanev appeared in only 11 games but served as a stabilizing presence on the back end, logging tough defensive minutes, killing penalties, and matching up against top opponents. Brandon Carlo is expected to return soon, which should help shore up the defence but cannot be expected to fully resolve blue-line issues alone. Anthony Stolarz returned to the ice after a November 11 lower-body injury, and his activation would ease Joseph Woll's heavy workload. The team faces continued roster adversity heading into Thursday's game.
Read at Editor In Leaf
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