John Chayka issues four major Leafs injury updates

Chris Tanev is getting closer to returning, and head coach Jim Hiller finally has some encouraging injury news as the Toronto Maple Leafs deal with several absences.

General manager John Chayka provided updates Monday on Chris Tanev, John Tavares, Dakota Joshua, and Max Domi, revealing significant differences in where each player stands in his recovery.

According to TSN's Mark Masters, Tanev is "progressing nicely" and should rejoin practice soon. That's welcome news for a Toronto blue line missing his defensive presence and experience.

Tanev's eventual return would give Hiller another dependable option in defensive situations, particularly on the penalty kill and when protecting leads late in games.

There was encouraging news concerning Tavares as well. The veteran center has resumed skating in Toronto, another positive development for a team awaiting the return of an important offensive contributor.

-

Still, skating doesn't automatically mean a return to game action is imminent. Tavares must continue progressing before the Leafs can establish when he'll be ready for regular NHL competition.

Dakota Joshua nearing return after lengthy absence from Maple Leafs

Dakota Joshua also appears to be approaching a return. Chayka confirmed the forward has completed a conditioning stint and is expected to be recalled soon, giving Toronto another potential option for its bottom six.

While several updates offered reasons for optimism, the situation surrounding Max Domi was considerably less encouraging.

Chayka confirmed that Domi has been skating on his own but remains out indefinitely. Unlike Tanev and Joshua, there's no immediate indication that his return is approaching.

That distinction matters for Hiller, who must continue preparing his lineup without knowing when Domi will become available again.

Domi's absence removes another offensive option from Toronto's forward group, limiting the coaching staff's flexibility when adjusting combinations and looking for production beyond its top players.

The difference between individual skating sessions and participating in full team practices is significant. Until Domi advances further, the Leafs have little certainty surrounding his availability.

With Tanev nearing practice, Joshua approaching a recall, and Tavares back on the ice, Toronto has several encouraging developments to monitor.

But Domi's indefinite absence remains the major unresolved issue. Chayka's latest updates offer some relief, though Hiller still faces difficult lineup decisions until his injured players are ready.

Also read on Markerzone.com:
Connor Hellebuyck finally breaks silence and is asked why he requested a trade out of Winnipeg