Unfortunate news coming out of Toronto as Maple Leafs defenseman Chris Tanev's test results likely mean that his 2025-26 season is over.
After a nine-week layoff as he recovered from head and neck injuries, Chris Tanev's return seemed to bring a stability and calmness to the Leafs' lineup that they desperately needed.
Unfortunately, Tanev's return was short-lived as he was injured last Sunday against the Detroit Red Wings, and the groin issue he suffered was rumoured to be serious.
The Leafs were hopeful that after testing, it would be revealed that it wasn't anything significant, but as the week went on, it became clear he was going to miss an extended period of time once again. How long was unclear until today's report from David Pagnotta.
Tanev to Undergo Surgery?
According to The Fourth Period's Dave Pagnotta, Tanev is meeting with doctors over the next few weeks to discuss surgical options to repair his groin issue.
Pagnotta reported that should the veteran choose surgery, he will likely be out for the remainder of the regular season with the earliest return date in late-April or in May.
Losing Tanev for the remainder of the regular season is a massive loss for the Leafs, and with Brandon Carlo still sidelined, and Jake McCabe leaving Saturday's game against the Islanders with an injury of his own, the team's blueline is seriously depleted, which may force a trade.