Overview
- Tanev told the Toronto Star in early September that he feels good after a March core‑muscle surgery and that the plan is for him to be on Day One of training camp, but doctors still need to "check some boxes" before he is cleared to play.
- The surgery followed a 2025‑26 season in which Tanev played just 11 games after a concussion, being stretchered off after a hit, spinal issues and later groin and core problems that ended his year.
- The Maple Leafs previously said the March procedure should allow Tanev to start camp, so his participation is treated as probable but remains conditional on final medical clearance.
- If doctors do not clear him, Toronto would have to decide whether to place him on long‑term injured reserve or pursue an internal or external replacement, a choice that would affect the team’s $4.5 million cap hit and short‑term roster construction.
- Tanev signed a six‑year, $27 million deal in July 2024 and was Toronto’s primary shutdown defender in 2024‑25, so his health will materially shape the club’s defensive pairings and its push to return to the playoffs.