Chris Tanev

Chris Tanev is a notable defenseman in the NHL, renowned for his defensive skills and shot-blocking abilities. Born on December 20, 1989, in Toronto, Ontario, Canada, Tanev began his NHL career in 2010. Over his career, he has become a stalwart on the blue line, known for his reliability and defensive prowess. Tanev did not go through the traditional NHL Entry Draft process. Instead, he was signed as an undrafted free agent, underscoring his determination and skill. Tanev's career highlights include his consistent defensive contributions and ability to perform under pressure, with his defensive metrics often reflecting high blocked shot counts and takeaways. During the 2025 season, Tanev's statistics highlighted his role as a defensive anchor. He played in 11 games, accumulating two assists, 15 blocked shots, and five takeaways, with a plus-minus rating of +8. His average ice time was just under 18 minutes per game, showcasing his integral role in his team's defensive strategies. Tanev's career longevity speaks to his resilience and adaptability in the league. While offensive stats may not define his career, his defensive contributions, leadership, and work ethic have made him a respected figure on and off the ice. His jersey number, 8, has become synonymous with steady and reliable defense throughout his extensive NHL tenure.