Chris Tanev spotted in walking boot after exiting Stars vs Oilers Game 4 with injury

By Zachary Roberts

Modified May 30, 2024 17:34 GMT

Chris Tanev took a hit from a hockey puck that he deflected away during Game 4, a game the Dallas Stars lost. He had to exit the game shortly thereafter and was seen in a walking boot later. The defenseman's status is up in the air as a result.

Tanev appeared to be in visible pain as he removed some equipment on the sideline. The Stars defender then limped to the locker room, where he presumably got medical attention and was given the walking boot.

Stars coach Pete DeBoer said, via the NHL website:

“Fingers crossed we’ll get him back for Game 5."

Stars captain Jamie Benn echoed the sentiment as well:

He’s one of the ultimate warriors in this league. It’s unbelievable to have him on our side now. I’ve played against him for a long time here. He’s a true professional. He plays the game hard. This gives guys more opportunity to step up and fill that void.”

Tanev would mark a huge loss in a series that is tied 2-2. The Edmonton Oilers won the fourth matchup to tie it up and make it a best-of-three which would be more difficult to win without Tanev.

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Chris Tanev might be able to play through injuries

In the past, major injuries have not slowed Chris Tanev down. The Stars player suffered a dislocated shoulder in 2022. During that same run, he tore his labrum and was still able to suit up for games four and five against, ironically, the Oilers.

Those injuries might lend themselves to playing through the pain a little more, though. Arm injuries are less detrimental to hockey players than leg injuries. It becomes much harder to skate around the ice with a bad leg or ankle.

Chris Tanev might not play in Game 5 if he remains injured

Fortunately, Game 5 is not until Friday at 8:30 pm EDT. That will give Chris Tanev a little more time to recover and with some medicines or shots, he might be able to gut it out. Currently, his status has not been defined.