The Toronto Maple Leafs continue to suffer blow after blow this season. The team was already struggling with inconsistent plays, which cost them multiple games. Heading into Saturday’s game, they had no option but to win.
But while the Maple Leafs pulled off a big win, the morale among the players didn’t see any improvement, as defenseman Chris Tanev’s injury painted a haunting sight.
While Toronto remains hopeful, fans quickly sent their well-wishes to the D-man.
Why Did Chris Tanev Get Stretchered Out of Last Night’s Game?
The Maple Leafs entered yesterday’s game against the Flyers coming off a massive 6-3 loss against the Blue Jackets. Anything but a win at the Xfinity Mobile Arena would have risked igniting the wrath of the fanbase.
However, while the Maple Leafs pulled off a 5-2 victory over the Flyers, Tanev’s first-period injury left the Toronto bench in shock. The D-man had just recovered from a concussion on October 21 before again being carried off last night.
The injury happened at the 11:37 mark when Tanev collided with Matvei Michkov in a shoulder-to-shoulder impact. His head bounced off the floor as he remained on the ice, holding his head before the medical staff could carry him outside.
Head coach Craig Berube quickly dispelled concerns as he mentioned that there’s a chance that Tanev could fly back home with the rest of the Maple Leafs. On Sunday, November 2, the Leafs announced that Tanev was evaluated overnight in Philadelphia for precautionary purposes. He was consequently discharged and will return home to Toronto.
Leafs Fans Send Prayers to Chris Tanev
Fans were left with a major scare at the sight of Tanev being stretchered off the ice. While those present in the audience quickly stood to applaud the player, those at home posted their well-wishes on social media.
One fan wrote, “Hope Tanev is gonna be alright, man.”
While some simply wished him luck, others argued that it wasn’t Michkov’s fault. One fan in particular posted, “He hardly hit the player! Wish him a quick recovery.” Some other fans believe that it was totally intentional by the Flyers player.
One fan wished that the defenseman would recover soon, as he tweeted, “Prayers for Tanev; hope he is ok 💙.”
“This only happens to someone who hasn’t recovered from a previous concussion,” wrote one supporter. They believe that he is yet to be completely fit if Michkov, who only weighs 172 pounds, could send him into a whiplash like that.
While Tanev recovers, the Maple Leafs will need to find another defensive solution for their backline as they continue to struggle heading into November hockey.
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