Overview
- Chris Tanev said this week he is feeling good after March core‑muscle surgery and plans to be on the ice for day one of training camp if team doctors clear him.
- The 36‑year‑old played just 11 games in 2025–26 after a string of injuries that included a suspected concussion, a spinal issue and the groin/core problem that required surgery.
- The Maple Leafs previously said the March procedure should allow Tanev to start camp, but multiple outlets report final medical checks remain and no official clearance has been announced.
- Tanev spent the summer rehabbing with trainer Gary Roberts and skating with NHL players such as Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl as he rebuilt strength and conditioning.
- If doctors do not clear him, Toronto will face short‑term decisions about replacing his shutdown role through internal options, cap moves such as LTIR use, or looking for an external addition.