Toronto Maple Leafs defenseman Chris Tanev has been back at practice this week, and now it appears as though he is on track to return sooner rather than later.
The Maple Leafs have been getting killed by injuries in the early going of the NHL season. Chris Tanev, John Tavares, and now Kirill Marchenko are all out.
However, there has been some progress as it pertains to Tanev. He has been back at practice wearing a red non-contract jersey.
This is real tangible progress, and it suggests that the defenseman is going to be ready to return soon, which is exactly what the Maple Leafs blue line needs right now.
According to Nick Kypreos, you can even put a date on Tanev's return. He believes that you can expect the defenseman to officially return as of Saturday night against the Vancouver Canucks.
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For some, this may be an ambitious timeline. However, Kypreos does have sources close to the team, and he appears confident in what he is saying.
In the end, it is all going to come down to Tanev, the team doctors, and head coach Jim Hiller as it pertains to whether or not he is going to play.
The Leafs look for defensive help in Tanev's absence
If you have been paying attention, then you know that the Toronto Maple Leafs have been looking for a defenseman throughout these injury woes.
Players like Simon Edvinsson, Zach Werenski, Zach Whitecloud, and even Alexander Nikishin have been named as potential players for this blue line.
That said, with Tanev coming back, it appears as though that search for a blue liner can be put on hold, at least for the immediate future.
Tanev's injury situation remains a developing story, and we will be sure to keep you updated.
Do you believe Chris Tanev will return this weekend?
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