If a picture is worth a thousand words, Dallas Stars defenseman Chris Tanev's injury occurred during game four of the Western Conference final when he blocked a shot from Edmonton Oilers left winger Evander Kane. He is categorized as day to day, so it's unlikely that he will be available for game five on Friday.
The Stars' acquisition of Tanev at the deadline has strengthened their already formidable defense, but with his addition and goalie Jake Oettinger's outstanding play, they have appeared nearly unbeatable.
Stranger things have happened in the playoffs than a player turning up in a walking cast and being presumed out, but if Tanev is designated as a game-time decision, the coaches, doctors, and he himself will probably decide whether he can play or not. Could he warm up and skate in the morning? It seems somewhat unlikely, even if it is totally conceivable.
The Stars will have to adopt a "next man up" approach if Tanev is unable to play. While it is highly unlikely that Tanev's position will be filled, it may open up opportunities for players like Miro Heiskanen, Esa Lindell, or Thomas Hartley to play more minutes in the future.
