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The Toronto Maple Leafs should just go ahead and shutdown an injured blueliner for the season given the direction they’re heading.
The Toronto Maple Leafs have several tough decisions ahead of them. In addition to the swirl of trade rumors surrounding the team, there are injury concerns to keep in mind. For instance, William Nylander remains a major question mark at the Olympics.
But one substantial injury concern for Toronto is defenseman Chris Tanev. Tanev has missed most of the season with assorted injuries. He’s only played 11 games this season, with his last being on December 28 against the Detroit Red Wings.
That situation has called Tanev’s status into question. He’s currently on LTIR, but the broader question should be whether the Maple Leafs should just go ahead and shut down Tanev for the season.
At this point, there’s really no reason for the Leafs to push Tanev to return this season. The 36-year-old will find it hard getting back into playing shape, considering the time remaining in the season.
Plus, the Maple Leafs’ playoff hopes are dim at best. So, why not just place Tanev on season-ending LTIR and use his cap hit towards acquiring another blueliner? After the season, cap issues could be sorted out.
Unless the Leafs feel that Tanev could still return this season, and the team is planning on playing well into the spring, there’s not much of a point in keeping Tanev as a possibility to return.
Maple Leafs Knew of Tanev’s Injury History
When the Maple Leafs signed Tanev in the 2024 offseason, one of the major points was his injury history. That’s what made his six-year deal so questionable at the time. The speculation was that Toronto was willing to add a couple of extra years on the contract to keep Tanev’s overall cap hit down.
The chatter also focused on how long it would take before Tanev officially hit the shelf with major injuries. While he played a full season last year, this season has been a disaster for the veteran defenseman.
Now, the Maple Leafs are facing questions about Tanev’s future. If there is still a plausible chance he could return to the NHL, the team must consider when that could be. Most likely, Tanev could return next season.
But what if Tanev can’t return at all?
Toronto Could Get Some Cap Relief if Tanev’s Playing Days Are Done
An unfortunate part of the NHL is that some players cannot finish out their contracts. Injuries keep them away from the ice. Unlike other sports, players can’t really retire while still under contract.
When a player retires while under contract, the signing team endures the dreaded Cap Recapture Penalty. It’s the reason why players like Carey Price unofficially retired, but never filed the official paperwork.
That’s what the Maple Leafs could face with Chris Tanev if his playing days are over. Toronto would likely go through the paperwork of placing Tanev on season-ending LTIR (SELTIR) to collect the cap relief that comes with it.
Moreover, placing Tanev on SELTIR helps clear up a roster spot, which can go towards another player. It would be a tough way to go out, but things don’t look too well for the Leafs’ rugged blueliner.
Nestor Quixtan Seasoned NHL analyst and baseball writer focused on covering clubs across each league with news, analysis, and insights. Originally from Toronto, Canada, Nestor’s singular experiences and background have enabled him to bring a different take on the sports world as a whole. Nestor’s fondness for baseball and hockey set the tone for his love and passion for writing about sports. More about Nestor Quixtan
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