Report: Chris Tanev seen in walking boot cast after Game 4

In case you missed it last night, Dallas Stars defenseman Chris Tanev left his team's Game 4 loss to the Edmonton Oilers after blocking a shot from Oilers Evander Kane.

Here's the play in question:

Tanev left the bench shortly after and did not return to action.

Last night, Stars coach Peter DeBoer wouldn't confirm Tanev's status for Game 5 but that he has his "fingers crossed" that Tanev will be able to suit up.

Now for the bad news: Late last night NHL insider Frank Seravalli reported that Tanev was seen leaving the arena in a walking boot style cast around his foot.

From Seravalli:

There were whispers Tanev exited Rogers Place in a walking boot, but Stars officials did not return inquiries – it’s the playoffs.

- Frank Seravalli

Until Bauer or CCM creates a walking boot skate, I don't see how Tanev factors into the lineup for Game 5.

And what's the plan in Tanev can't play? “Next man up,” DeBoer said last night. 

Stay tuned for official confirmation on Tanev's injury status.

Read below for our earlier report on last night's game, specifically the analysis from Sportsnet panel member Kevin Bieksa.

In case you missed it last night, the Edmonton Oilers managed a 5-2 victory over the Dallas Stars in Game 4 of the Western Conference Final to even the series at two games apiece.

The Oilers mounted an impressive comeback after being down 2-0 in the game after their offence exploded in the second half of the game. It was an outstanding effort from a team that looked very determined, despite being down early in the game.

Afterwards there was plenty of praise for Oilers stars Connor McDavid (3 pts) and Leon Draisaitl (1 goal) from Sportsnet's media panel, but former Vancouver Canucks and Anaheim Ducks defenseman turned media analyst Kevin Bieksa wanted to highlight the play of defenseman Darnell Nurse. Nurse has been highly criticized by both fans and media this playoffs, but he had a solid game in Game 4 and Bieksa wanted to give him his credit. After all, Nurse won't get any praise from the 'Edmonton Meat' as Bieksa calls the Edmonton media because they're "raw, dead and dumb."

Check it out:

I've got to say... I absolutely love Bieksa on this panel.

He's a breath of fresh air on an otherwise stale production. To me, he's the only Sportsnet panelist worth listening to during intermission segments.