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Maple Leafs just lost one of their most important defensemen

A Toronto Maple Leafs blueliner suffered an injury during Saturday night's game and did not return.

By Thomas Williams · Editor in Leaf

Published: Sunday, 11 October 2026 at 11:24 AM

Key Things to Know

Maple Leafs defenseman Chris Tanev suffered an upper-body injury against Colorado and did not return.
The 36-year-old blueliner left in the first period after colliding with Avalanche winger Artturi Lehkonen.
Thomas Williams argues the injury leaves Toronto short on top-four defensive options alongside Jake McCabe.

The Story in 60 Seconds

Toronto Maple Leafs defenseman Chris Tanev left Saturday's game against the Colorado Avalanche with an upper-body injury and did not return. The 36-year-old blueliner departed in the first period following a collision near the Toronto crease with Avalanche forward Artturi Lehkonen.

Writer Thomas Williams argues that losing Tanev significantly weakens Toronto's defensive depth, leaving Jake McCabe with the primary defensive burden. The article suggests this setback could prompt general manager John Chayka to seek defensive reinforcements before the team faces the Utah Mammoth on Tuesday.

Read the full article on Editor in Leaf

Maple Leafs just lost one of their most important defensemen

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