Canucks' Chris Tanev: Expected to begin season on top defensive pairing

Tanev and Alexander Edler are expected to form Vancouver's top defensive pairing this season.

Analysis:

Tanev was the talk of trade speculation over the summer, but it appears he won't be moved anytime soon. The 27-year-old has been one of Vancouver's most consistent blueliners over the past few years and should be a workhorse once again in 2017-18. Tanev impressed in the preseason with a beautiful goal against the Kings and should improve on the lackluster 10 points he recorded last season. He's relied on more for his defensive abilities and doesn't see power-play time, but given his workload and lethal wrist shot, Tanev is worth a look in some deeper formats.