Stars head coach Pete DeBoer ‘optimistic’ defenceman Chris Tanev plays in Game 5

DALLAS — Dallas Stars head coach Pete DeBoer is “optimistic” defenceman Chris Tanev will be available for tonight’s Game 5 of the NHL’s Western Conference final against the Edmonton Oilers.

The shutdown blueliner didn’t return after taking a shot off his right foot in the second period Wednesday.

Edmonton took that one 5-2 to even the best-of-seven series 2-2.

Tanev, who is listed as a game-time decision, is averaging 22 minutes 33 seconds of ice time in the playoffs.