The Toronto Maple Leafs' hopes for a strong second-half push in the NHL season have been dealt a severe blow with the loss of a key defender. Veteran defenceman Chris Tanev is expected to miss significant time after suffering a groin injury, head coach Craig Berube confirmed on Wednesday.
A Freak Injury at a Critical Time
The injury occurred during the third period of the Leafs' overtime loss to the Detroit Red Wings on Sunday, December 29, 2025. Tanev was executing a defensive play, poking the puck away from Red Wings forward Alex DeBrincat, when he was hurt. Coach Berube described the incident as a freak thing, noting there was no contact between the players and the movement did not appear strenuous.
This latest setback continues a frustrating season for the 36-year-old blueliner. Due to various injuries, Tanev has suited up for just 11 games in the 2025-26 campaign. His absence has been a major factor in the team's inconsistent defensive play this year, missing his calming presence, puck-moving ability, and renowned compete level.
Playoff Hopes Take a Hit
The timing of Tanev's extended absence could not be worse for the Maple Leafs' playoff aspirations. As the calendar turned to 2026, the team found itself in a tight race, sitting just three points out of the second wild-card spot in the Eastern Conference prior to New Year's Eve games.
There is no way to sugarcoat the impact of this loss. Tanev, signed to a six-year deal in the summer of 2024, was brought in to be a defensive pillar. Concerns about his durability given his physical style of play have unfortunately been realized, as he is now set to miss the majority of this season.
Coach Berube acknowledged the challenge but pointed to the team's resilience. You're not going to replace that, but we have a lot of heart-and-soul guys in here, Berube said, referencing a 4-0 win over the New Jersey Devils where the team collectively elevated its game.
Injury Updates on Matthews, Nylander, and Others
While the Tanev news dominated the final day of 2025, there was a mix of other injury developments for the Leafs:
Auston Matthews, recovering from a lower-body foot injury, was a full participant in an optional practice on Wednesday. His movement appeared unrestricted, and his status for the New Year's Day game against the Winnipeg Jets was to be determined after the morning skate.
In less promising news, winger William Nylander (lower-body injury) did not skate and is unlikely to return for the Jets game. Forward Dakota Joshua, who suffered an internal kidney injury in Detroit, will also miss significant time.
A potential silver lining comes on the blue line, where defenceman Brandon Carlo (foot) is nearing a return after being out since November 13. He could be back as early as Saturday's game against the New York Islanders, which would help offset the loss of Tanev.
In goal, Anthony Stolarz (upper-body injury) skated for the first time since November 11, though no timeline for his return has been set. The goaltending tandem of Joseph Woll and Dennis Hildeby has performed well in his absence.
Finding Optimism as 2026 Begins
Despite the injury woes, Coach Berube pointed to reasons for optimism as the team enters the new year. The Leafs finished December strong, earning seven of a possible eight points in their last four games (3-0-1).
Improvements in key areas like the power play and goaltending, combined with a penalty kill that ranked fourth in the NHL prior to Wednesday, have created positive momentum. Berube praised the team's attitude and determination, calling it a dog fight for January but expressing confidence in the group's mindset.
The Leafs' ability to weather this latest storm and stay in the playoff hunt will be one of the defining stories of their 2025-26 season, starting with a crucial matchup against the Winnipeg Jets at Scotiabank Arena to ring in the new year.
