Dallas Stars Chris Tanev unlikely to suit up for game 5 of WCF
Dallas Stars defenseman Chris Tanev was injured during game four of the Western Conference final after blocking a shot from Edmonton Oilers left winger Evander Kane, and if a picture can paint a thousand words, it seems unlikely he will be available Friday for game five as he is listed day to day.
Tanev, acquired by the Stars at the deadline, has been a welcome addition to a back end that was already strong as it is; however, with his addition and the strong play of goaltender Jake Oettinger, they have seemed almost impenetrable.
During the playoffs, stranger things have occurred than a player showing up in a walking cast being assumed out, but if Tanev is listed as a game-time decision, it would likely be at the discretion of the doctors, coaching staff and himself to determine whether he can go. Could we see him take morning skate and warm up? Although entirely possible, it seems a bit unlikely.
If Tanev can't go, the Stars will have to use the next-man-up mentality, and even though filling Tanev's spot is next to impossible, it could give guys like Miro Heiskanen, Esa Lindell or Thomas Hartley an opportunity for more minutes moving forward.
| POLL | ||
Can the Dallas Stars win with Chris Tanev unavailable? | ||
| Yes | 115 | 50.9 % |
| No | 111 | 49.1 % |
| List of polls | ||
