The Dallas Stars are down to five defencemen at a critical time.

Chris Tanev left Wednesday’s Game 4 against the Edmonton Oilers after blocking a shot from Evander Kane in the second period. He was able to get off the ice on his own, but eventually limped down the tunnel. He did not return for the start of the third period.

The team announced shortly after the start of the final frame that the defenceman is questionable to return with a lower-body injury.

Tanev, 34, was acquired by the Stars from the Calgary Flames at the trade deadline and has been an integral part of the Stars’ deep blue line in their run to the third round.

Tanev has played all playoff games with 23:25 average TOI and a plus-six rating through 16 games. He played 8:37 in Game 4 and registered three blocked shots before he was forced to leave.

In a disappointing turn of events for the Dallas Stars, defenseman Chris Tanev was forced to leave Game 4 of the Stanley Cup Playoffs due to a lower-body injury. Tanev, who has been a key player for the Stars throughout the playoffs, was visibly in pain as he skated off the ice in the second period.

The loss of Tanev is a significant blow to the Stars, as he has been a reliable presence on the blue line and has contributed both offensively and defensively. His absence will be felt in Game 4 and potentially beyond, depending on the severity of his injury.

Lower-body injuries can be particularly tricky for hockey players, as they rely heavily on their legs for skating and maneuvering on the ice. Tanev’s injury could impact his ability to play at full strength and may require him to sit out for an extended period of time.

The Stars will need to adjust their lineup and strategy in Tanev’s absence, as they look to bounce back from a tough loss in Game 4. They will need other players to step up and fill the void left by Tanev’s injury, in order to keep their playoff hopes alive.

As fans wait for updates on Tanev’s condition, they can only hope for a speedy recovery and a swift return to the ice for one of the Stars’ most valuable players. In the meantime, the team will need to rally together and continue their push towards the Stanley Cup, despite this setback.