How many teams has Chris Tanev played for?

Christopher Tanev, born on December 20, 1989, is a Canadian professional ice hockey defenseman currently playing for the Toronto Maple Leafs in the National Hockey League (NHL). Undrafted in the NHL Entry Draft, Tanev joined the Vancouver Canucks as a free agent after a standout freshman year with the Rochester Institute of Technology Tigers.

His impressive college season included earning the title of Atlantic Hockey's Rookie of the Year and securing a place on the All-Tournament and Third All-Star Team, contributing to the Tigers' conference championship. Before college, Tanev showcased his skills in the Ontario Provincial Junior Hockey League for three seasons.

Also Read: Chris Tanev Contract

Chris Tanev Team History

Chris Tanev has played for three teams in the NHL: Vancouver Canucks, Calgary Flames, Dallas Stars, and now playing for the Toronto Maple Leafs.

Vancouver Canucks:

Chris Tanev's journey in the National Hockey League (NHL) began with the Vancouver Canucks. Despite going undrafted, Tanev caught the attention of the Canucks' scouting staff during the NCAA tournament. He later signed with the Canucks as an undrafted free agent on May 31, 2010, forgoing his college hockey eligibility. Tanev made his professional debut with the Manitoba Moose in the AHL before receiving his first call-up to the Canucks in January 2011. Notably, he became the first alumnus of the Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) to play in the NHL. Tanev contributed to the Canucks' playoff run in the 2010-11 season, making his NHL playoff debut in the Stanley Cup Finals against the Boston Bruins. His consistent and dependable play earned him a regular spot with the Canucks, and he continued to be a key player for the team.

After a strong rookie season, Tanev increased his strength in the off-season and made the Canucks' opening lineup for the 2011-12 season. However, he was later reassigned to the Chicago Wolves, Canucks' AHL affiliate, to receive more ice time. Tanev experienced ups and downs, including injuries, but remained a valuable asset to the Canucks. His first NHL goal came on February 4, 2013, in an overtime win against the Edmonton Oilers. He continued to be a reliable defenseman for the Canucks, signing a 5-year contract extension on March 24, 2015. Tanev's notable moments with the Canucks include scoring a crucial overtime goal in the 2020 playoffs.

Calgary Flames:

On October 9, 2020, Chris Tanev left the Canucks in free agency after ten seasons and signed a four-year, $18 million contract with the Calgary Flames. His tenure with the Flames showcased his defensive skills and leadership on the ice.

Dallas Stars:

On February 28, 2024, Tanev was traded by the Flames to the Dallas Stars in a three-team deal involving the New Jersey Devils. The trademarked a new chapter in Tanev's career, bringing his experience and defensive prowess to the Stars.

Toronto Maple Leafs:

Tanve joined the Toronto Maple Leafs in 2024, signing a six-year contract with the team. He will be playing the next six years with the Maple Leafs if the team does not trade him.

Chris Tanev's Achievements

Chris Tanev has earned several awards and honors throughout his hockey career. In 2009, he was recognized as the Top Defenceman while playing for the Markham Waxers. During his college stint, Tanev garnered multiple accolades in 2010, including the Atlantic Hockey Rookie of the Year, a spot on the All-Atlantic Hockey Third Team, and inclusion in the All-Atlantic Hockey Rookie Team. His outstanding performance also earned him a place on the Atlantic Hockey All-Tournament Team in the same year. Upon joining the Vancouver Canucks, Tanev's contributions were acknowledged with the Babe Pratt Trophy in 2015, further solidifying his impact on the ice.