Chris Tanev Makes His First Appearance Since Being Stretchered Off in Philadelphia

In a stunning turn of events that shows just how much of a warrior defenseman Chris Tanev is, some new footage shows him back at practice only a week removed from being stretchered off the ice:

For anyone to be walking and feeling normally is a miracle after being concussed let alone in full gear and ready to get back into game shape, and Tanev is known for being a bit reckless with his body; but this seems like a calculated move.

Tanev was injured last Saturday against the Flyers when forward Matvei Michkov bumped the Maple Leafs blueliner from behind in the back of the head/neck area before Tanev crumpled to the ice:

He isn't going to come back until he feels 100%, and commented previously about how concussions take different forms, and though he may have been stretchered off, very well could have avoided the worst and was dealing with minor symptoms.

Whatever the case, the team cannot rush him back in any capacity and can't afford to lose another piece for an extended period of time especially someone who is so vital to the makeup of the Maple Leafs.

Tanev has been solid as ever this season, and has two assists and eight blocks in eight games so far, and was Toronto's best defenseman this year before going down; a role filled admirably by partner Jake McCabe.

Defenseman Brandon Carlo, who has been leaned heavily upon in Tanev's absence had a lot of hope for his teammate to return shortly, and that his demeanour was chipper; a huge positive for his condition:

No doubt itching to get back into the fray, Tanev is going to need to take his time before coming back but all signs are pointing to that return being much sooner than later.

For now though, all we can do is breathe a sigh of relief that Chris Tanev is not only doing okay, but is close to coming back proving once again his warrior spirit may be tested, but never bested.