Matthew Tkachuk didn’t hold back when talking about Chris Tanev before Game 4 between the Florida Panthers and Toronto Maple Leafs. The Panthers forward had nothing but respect for his former Calgary Flames teammate, calling Tanev the “head of the snake” on Toronto’s defense.
The remark came as both teams prepped for a must-win game. Even though they’re on opposite sides now, Tkachuk made it clear just how much of an impact Tanev has had in strengthening the Leafs’ blue line this postseason.
Respect Between Matthew Tkachuk and Chris Tanev Runs Deep
At 35, Tanev has been a key piece for Toronto, especially with Florida’s top scorers, including Tkachuk, not finding the back of the net as often. Tkachuk has two assists in the series but has yet to score.
Meanwhile, Tanev’s been doing the dirty work: blocking shots, closing lanes, and making life difficult for Florida’s top line. His contributions haven’t gone unnoticed by coaches, teammates, or even his old linemates.
Tkachuk and Tanev go way back to their Calgary days, and the mutual respect is clear, even in the middle of a hard-fought playoff series. Tkachuk didn’t use the “head of the snake” label lightly — it was a real compliment to Tanev’s leadership and consistency.
Matthew Tkachuk said this morning that Chris Tanev is someone he’s known well dating back to Calgary and he’s very impressed with the way he’s been playing for Toronto.
“He’s the head of the snake on their back-end, it’s no surprise to see what he’s doing now”
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“He’s kind of like the head of the snake back there on their back end. He’s their leader. We’re not inside the walls of their room,” Tkachuk said. “You can tell by the way he conducts himself and talks to the team and leads by example. I’ve seen it. It’s no surprise to see what he’s doing now. I don’t know if we’re wearing them down or anything like that.”
While “head of the snake” might sound intense, Tkachuk clearly meant it as a sign of respect. Tanev’s always in the right position, blocking shots, breaking up plays, and keeping things under control — often without the spotlight.
Tanev had kind words for Tkachuk, too. He called him a smart, skilled player who knows how to find scoring chances and get under people’s skin. He admitted that playing against someone like Tkachuk is never easy. But once the puck drops, the friendship gets put on hold. It’s all about winning.
Tanev’s Toughness Helps Anchor Toronto’s Defense
Tanev left Game 3 early, but it turned out to be nothing more than an equipment issue. His impact on Toronto’s defense, though, continues to be huge. Head coach Craig Berube praised Tanev’s willingness to sacrifice his body, saying it fires up the whole bench.
Tanev leads the Maple Leafs in blocked shots this postseason and remains a reliable presence on the blue line next to Jake McCabe. Despite exiting early in Game 3, he’s expected to be ready for Game 4.
His teammates have taken notice as well. Max Domi called Tanev’s selflessness “the most selfless thing you can do.”
Tkachuk’s words only reinforce what Leafs fans already know. That is that Tanev is a key reason Toronto is still in the hunt. With Game 4 looming, all eyes are on a guy who rarely seeks attention — and the opponent who knows exactly how dangerous he can be.