Leafs Defense Key to Playoff Push | NHL News

NHL News Today | 2 Min News | The Daily News Now! · Jul 18, 2026 · 1m

The Toronto Maple Leafs’ playoff push hinges on their defense, where Chris Tanev’s return to full health is the linchpin. With key additions like Darren Raddysh, Emil Andrae, Jake McCabe, and Oliver Ekman-Larsson, the blue line now boasts depth and experience. Tanev’s calm leadership and shutdown ability make him indispensable, especially after last year’s struggles without him. Even if Morgan Rielly departs, the core defense is primed for above-average play, giving goalies like Sergei Bobrovsky the support they need. While a superstar defenseman remains a tantalizing possibility, the Leafs’…