Canucks' Tanev returns to lineup after 17-game absence

Vancouver Canucks defenseman Chris Tanev will play Saturday against the San Jose Sharks after missing the last 17 games due to a leg injury, the player confirmed.

Tanev, known more for his defensive abilities than his offensive prowess, has two goals and 11 points in 38 games this season, and hasn't scored since Oct. 12. The Canucks have struggled to score of late, going over a week without a goal.

While it's unlikely that Tanev will help the team bust out of its offensive funk, he will no doubt provide much-needed stability to the blue line against a Sharks team coming off a seven-goal performance Friday against the Flames.