Maple Leafs' Berube lauds Tanev's toughness: 'He's a gamer'

Toronto Maple Leafs head coach Craig Berube gave Chris Tanev his flowers after the defenseman returned to Tuesday's 3-1 win against the New York Islanders despite blocking a shot with his face.

Tanev lost a tooth but missed only about seven minutes of game time.

He logged 17:37 in the contest, recording an assist and four blocked shots.

"He's old school, for sure, and he's a gamer, all around," Berube said postgame. "He lays it on the line. I was expecting him back sooner than later. He's a special player. Just how he thinks the game and plays the game, not a lot of those guys around anymore. We're very fortunate to have him."

Tanev has been a sensational addition to the Maple Leafs' blue line since the club acquired his rights from the Dallas Stars and signed him to a six-year, $27-million contract in the summer. The 35-year-old entered Tuesday leading the NHL in blocked shots and ranking third among all skaters in defensive goals above replacement, per Evolving-Hockey.

"I don't know if I've ever seen a D-man block as many shots as he does," Berube said. "He never panics with the puck. If he doesn't have a play, he eats it, grinds it out of the zone. Grinds it to make a play later. But he doesn't ever panic. His heads up. He's a very intelligent player."

Berube added: "His ability is right here (pointing to his head) and right here (pointing to his heart). That's what he has."

Tanev, a Toronto native, ranks 20th in blocked shots since the stat started being tracked in 2005-06.