Matthew Tkachuk witnessed Chris Tanev block countless shots and absorb numerous hits during their shared time with the Calgary Flames.
A gritty, in-your-face forward himself, Tkachuk grew to appreciate the hard-nosed defenseman`s approach over two seasons as teammates.
That admiration has only intensified now that they are adversaries.
Tkachuk and his Florida Panthers are currently battling Tanev`s Toronto Maple Leafs in the second round of the playoffs. This series, much like a significant part of his career in the NHL, is exacting a heavy physical toll on the veteran blueliner.
“I`m very impressed with how he`s played,” Tkachuk commented on the 35-year-old just hours before Game 4, with the Leafs holding a 2-1 lead in the Atlantic Division matchup. “To see him competing at this stage, and consistently performing year after year, is truly remarkable.”
Frankly, Tanev is enduring a lot of physical pressure this spring.
According to the hockey analytics website Natural Stat Trick, the Toronto native had taken a remarkable 71 hits in nine postseason games leading up to Sunday`s action – 28 more than Rasmus Sandin of the Washington Capitals, who ranked second.
“He`s like the head of the snake back there,” Tkachuk added, referring to Tanev. “He serves as their leader. You can easily see this in the way he conducts himself and interacts with the team… he leads by example.”
“Having witnessed it before, it comes as no surprise,” Tkachuk concluded.
Tanev has also successfully blocked 25 shots, placing him in a tie for third across the league.
“He literally puts his body on the line during every single shift,” stated Leafs winger Mitch Marner. “He contributes many valuable things for us.”
Tanev briefly left the ice during the third period of Friday`s 5-4 overtime loss that tightened Toronto`s advantage in the best-of-seven series. However, his departure was due to a broken skate, not an injury.
“Feel great,” he responded when questioned about his physical condition.
Tristan Blackwood