When Alex Pietrangelo withdrew from Team Canada’s 4 Nations Face-Off roster, citing an undisclosed ailment, the hockey world, and especially Toronto Maple Leafs fans, turned its attention to potential replacements.
While names like Evan Bouchard and MacKenzie Weega were bandied about, one candidate stood apart as a stabilizing force: Toronto Maple Leafs defenseman Chris Tanev.
Known for his selfless, no-frills style, Chris Tanev embodies the defensive backbone Canada needs to complement its star-studded lineup. At 35, the un drafted veteran isn’t just a placeholder—he’s a masterclass in reliability, offering a skill set uniquely tailored to thrive in high-stakes tournaments.
Sadly, it was not to be, as Team Canada announced yesterday that they were taking Drew Doughty instead. (stats naturalstattrick.com).
Toronto Maple Leafs Defenseman Chris Tanev Left Off 4 Nations Faceoff Roster
The argument for taking Tanev was pretty obvious:
He is a shutdown specialist with a career defined by blocking shots, breaking up plays, and suffocating opponents’ top lines, Tanev has quietly become one of the NHL’s most trusted defensive pillars.
His $4.5 million contract with the Leafs, signed last summer, already looks like a bargain as he anchors the Toronto Maple Leafs defensive core. Tanev’s ability to simplify the game—prioritizing positioning over flash—has transformed Toronto’s blue line from a liability into a strength, not to say it isn't in need of further improvement .
Team Canada’s roster boasts elite puck-moving defensemen like Cale Makar, Shea Theodore, and Josh Morrissey, whose offensive abilities will drive breakouts, rushes and offensive zone chances. But in a short tournament against elite competition, balancing skill with stability is critical.
Tanev’s game is built for this exact scenario: he thrives in chaos, calms transitions, and excels in the thankless tasks that win tight games. While Doughty is a legend with a ridiculous resume, the Team Canada brass may regret not going with Tanev.
Tanev’s value lies in his defensive IQ. He ranks third in the NHL with 142 blocked shots this season, a testament to his willingness to sacrifice his body—whether diving to break up a 2-on-1 or standing tall in shooting lanes. But it’s not just quantity; it’s timing.
His defensive zone coverage is equally meticulous. Tanev leverages angled routes and an active stick to maintain tight gaps, shutting down rush chances before they materialize. In an era where defenders often prioritize joining the attack, Tanev’s discipline is a throwback. He starts 74.6% of his shifts in the defensive zone—the highest rate among Leafs skaters—yet still boasts a team-leading +18 rating.
This isn’t luck; it’s a product of smart reads, quick transitions, and an uncanny ability to box out opponents from high-danger areas. Team Canada has made a huge mistake.