Toronto Maple Leafs defenseman Chris Tanev (8) clears the puck after goalie Matt Murray (30) made a save against Washington Capitals forward Alex Ovechkin (8) in the first period at Scotiabank Arena. (Credit: IMAGN)
Toronto Maple Leafs’ Chris Tanev is no stranger to taking hits and losing teeth. And on New Year’s Eve, he did both after getting hit in the face by a deflected puck. Coach Craig Berube praised the defenseman’s grit and determination after he returned to the ice despite the painful injury.
"He’s old school for sure and he’s a gamer, all around. He lays it on the line. I was expecting him back sooner than later. He’s a special player with just how he thinks the game and plays the game, not a lot of those guys around anymore. We’re very fortunate to have him,” Berube said.
