Tough Start Gets Worse: Tanev Placed on Injured Reserve
The Toronto Maple Leafs' difficult start to the 2025-26 season has just gone from bad to worse. The team announced this morning that they have been forced to place veteran defenseman Chris Tanev on injured reserve.
Tanev, widely regarded as one of the toughest and most durable players in the league, was injured in Tuesday night's game against the New Jersey Devils.
The Injury and Immediate Impact
Tanev did not return to the game after an awkward collision that resulted in him taking Dawson Mercer's helmet to the chin.
https://x.com/TSN_Sports/status/1980789345901580699?t=QYiDvJkdV8tdFAiW9L6pBw&s=19
Seeing a player with Tanev's reputation for playing through pain go down and not immediately get up is always a surprising and concerning sight. As a player known around the league for his toughness, his inability to return to the game was a clear sign of a significant injury. For a Leafs team that has been struggling to find consistency, this blow will surely add additional pressure to their defensive corps.
Mermis Recalled from the Marlies
In Tanev’s absence, the Leafs have recalled defenseman Dakota Mermis from the AHL's Toronto Marlies.
https://x.com/LeafsPR/status/1981375063287861536?t=ZermLO1p07tb37xugSR0iw&s=19
Weathering the Storm: What's Next for the Leafs' D-Core
While it's never wise to speculate about injuries, the collision appeared to involve a direct shot to Tanev's head. Even though it was caused by his own actions, this could still lead to a concussion, which carries potential long-term problems. Anytime a player suffers a head injury, you have to be aware of the long-term risks.
If the Maple Leafs aren't able to find stability with Philippe Myers or Mermis stepping into the lineup, the month of October and the beginning of November could drag on. With Joseph Woll already out of the lineup and very few assets remaining for a trade, the team may have no choice but to attempt to weather this storm internally. The last thing the Maple Leafs needed was an injury to their most reliable defensive defender.