The Toronto Maple Leafs are facing increasing uncertainty regarding the status of defenseman Chris Tanev, with concerns emerging about both his current season and long-term career prospects. Tanev has been sidelined since November 1st, after sustaining an upper-body injury against the Philadelphia Flyers. The incident occurred shortly after Tanev had returned from a previous setback, with a hit from Matvei Michkov forcing him to leave the game on a stretcher.

Initially, there was optimism surrounding Tanev's recovery, as he progressed to skating in both non-contact and regular jerseys during practice. However, a recent report from Sportsnet's Nick Kypreos has cast a shadow over Tanev's potential return. Kypreos indicated that Tanev and the Maple Leafs are now considering surgical intervention to address the defenseman's lingering issues. According to Kypreos, the decision regarding surgery is expected to be made this week, following a thorough medical evaluation.

The possibility of surgery raises questions about Tanev's availability for the remainder of the season. While Kypreos suggested that surgery shouldn't preclude Tanev from returning before the end of the regular season, the timeline for his comeback remains unclear. The Maple Leafs have not disclosed the specific nature of Tanev's injury, further contributing to the uncertainty surrounding his status.

Adding to the concern is the potential long-term implications of Tanev's injury. Kypreos drew a comparison to former Leaf Jake Muzzin, whose career was cut short due to a cervical spine injury. The concern for Tanev stems from the possibility of him sustaining another damaging hit, which could exacerbate his symptoms. "The biggest concern for Tanev is if he takes another hit similar to the one he received on Nov. 1," Kypreos wrote. "What are the risks of him further exacerbating the symptoms he's had since?".

The Maple Leafs' management faces a difficult decision, balancing the desire to have Tanev back in the lineup with the need to prioritize his long-term health. As Kypreos noted, fielding a compromised version of Tanev could be detrimental, potentially leading to further, permanent medical issues. The organization must weigh the benefits of Tanev's presence on the ice against the risk of him suffering a career-altering injury.

Tanev's absence has undoubtedly been felt on the Maple Leafs' blue line. A veteran defenseman known for his shot-blocking ability and defensive prowess, Tanev provides stability and leadership to the team. In 875 career games, Tanev has recorded 36 goals and 174 assists. His plus-minus of +156 reflects his reliability in his own zone.

As the Maple Leafs await the results of Tanev's medical evaluation, the team's fans are holding their breath, hoping for positive news. However, the possibility of surgery and the concerns about his long-term health have created a sense of unease around Tanev's future in Toronto. The coming days will be crucial in determining the next steps for Tanev, as he navigates a critical juncture in his career.