The Toronto Maple Leafs have been looking for help on the blueline all season as they have been depleted by injuries. Today we got a positive update on one player the Leafs have been linked to, making the possibility of an imminent trade more likely.
Tanev To Return To Flames Lineup Following Minor Injury
The Leafs have reportedly been in discussions with the Calgary Flames all season regarding their defensemen. The Flames already delt Nikita Zadorov to the Canucks, so now the Leafs have been targeting Chris Tanev instead. Unfortunately for the Leafs, Tanev was recently injured, jeopardizing the trade.
#Flames are sending Matt Coronato back to the AHL Wranglers.
With Chris Tanev's injury situation, team has recalled d-man Nick DeSimone. Tanev day-to-day with an upper body injury.
Luckily though, we got another update on Tanev status today and it sounds like he will be participating in the team's game tonight against the Florida Panthers.
Looks like Chris Tanev is back in tonight for Calgary. He's back skating with Noah Hanifin at a well-attended optional morning skate.
Tanev has missed the last three games with an upper body injury. #Flames
Toronto Maple Leafs Still Invested In Trading For Flames Defenseman
NHL insider Elliotte Friedman reported today that he believes the Leafs are still heavily pursuing Chris Tanev. He also noted that a trade may be more likely now after the recent injury scares Tanev has suffered. If he were to get injured in a serious way he would lose all value to the team. Friedman also noted that the Devils, among other teams, may be bidding on him as well.
"I think Toronto is really interested, I think you guys are really interested.."
@FriedgeHNIC on Chris Tanev's future in Calgary.
The Leafs need to fill holes on their blueline like peanut butter sandwich needs jelly. Perhaps these recent injury scares will spur the Leafs into taking quicker action although it may also scare the team given their injury history this season. Hopefully we see the team make a move shortly.