Chris Tanev, the Dallas Stars’ defenseman, shares details about his playoff injury and recovery plans. Learn how Tanev’s resilience and defensive prowess have made him a key player despite injuries.
- Chris Tanev suffered a lower-body injury in Game 4 of the Western Conference Final but will not require surgery.
- Despite his injury, Tanev continued to play in Games 5 and 6, showcasing his resilience and commitment to the team.
- Tanev, a key defenseman, has been crucial for the Stars’ defense, significantly impacting their performance since his acquisition.
Injury Sustained in Game 4 Against Edmonton
Chris Tanev has earned a reputation as a “warrior” in the NHL. He is known for his exceptional shot-blocking and defensive skills and his ability to play through injuries.
During the Dallas Stars’ Western Conference final run this spring, Tanev faced multiple challenges, from dental work to a lower-body injury.
In Game 4, Tanev suffered a lower-body injury, specifically an ankle injury, after blocking a shot by Edmonton Oilers winger Evander Kane.
The impact left him momentarily incapacitated as he skated off the ice.
Reflecting on the incident, Tanev shared, “Got hit with a puck, and next shift, I jumped on the ice, took a step, and felt something pop in my ankle. Obviously, right away, you’re thinking the worst and thinking, ‘Oh, man. I just popped my Achilles.’ Thankfully it wasn’t that. I just hurt some of the tendons that go behind my ankle. No surgery. I’ll be fine in a couple of weeks, which is awesome.”
Staying in the Game: Tanev’s Commitment to the Team
Despite his injury, Tanev played in Games 5 and 6, showing his determination and resilience.
Tanev mentioned that he would have continued playing even if the Stars had advanced to the Stanley Cup Final.
“100%. Take my leg,” he joked. “If there’s a chance and there’s things that they can do to help you play in a situation like that, you’re going to exhaust all options to get out there and try to help the team.”
Tanev’s Impact & Future with the Stars
Tanev played a crucial role for the Stars throughout the postseason, participating in all 19 games and recording two assists.
His average ice time was 22:17 per night, and he maintained a plus-seven in plus-minus. As an unrestricted free agent this offseason, his future with the team remains uncertain.
Stars coach Pete DeBoer described Tanev’s importance to the group.
“Huge part of our group. I think that’s obvious. You look at our record since the [NHL] Trade Deadline with him (15-4-0 in regular season, 10-7 in Stanley Cup Playoffs) and all the underlying numbers, he affects all parts of the game,” he said.
Stars Rally with Next-Man-Up Mentality
Tanev’s presence in the defense line has been a very important development in the NHL histroy. He ranks second in the playoffs with 68 blocked shots, just behind New York Rangers defenseman Jacob Trouba.
His defensive efforts have been instrumental in the Stars’ playoff performance.
Stars forward Jason Robertson acknowledged Tanev’s contributions, saying, “I’m not too sure what he’s doing or how it’s going, but obviously he’s a big part of our team, plays a lot of minutes, hard minutes… But it’s those situations where every team’s dealing with injuries or whatnot, guys coming in and out of the lineup, and it’s the next-man-up mentality. Whatever happens happens, but we have the character and the players in this room to fill any void for any position.”
Stars’ Defensive Resilience Amidst Injuries
The Stars faced challenges with their defensive depth throughout the playoffs. With key players like Jani Hakanpää out due to injury, the team relied on other defensemen like Alexander Petrovic and Nils Lundkvist.
Petrovic, despite limited playoff experience, stepped up effectively.
DeBoer highlighted the importance of every player contributing, “As Petrovic has shown, you don’t have to have played games. ‘Petro’ didn’t play a game all year, has come in and done a fantastic job for us. We’ll consider all those things when we’re looking at the group of guys that are an option.”
Tanev’s Legacy and Future with the Stars
Tanev’s postseason journey has been a testament to his resilience and dedication.
Acquired from the Calgary Flames in a three-team trade, Tanev quickly became an essential part of the Stars’ defense.
His determination and performance under pressure have solidified his reputation as a “warrior” on the ice.
As the Stars look towards the future, Tanev’s contributions will undoubtedly be remembered as a significant part of their playoff journey.
