It doesn’t sound like it’ll be long before we see Thatcher Demko back in net for the Vancouver Canucks.
Demko, who hasn’t played a game in seven months due to injury, has been making positive progress for some time now. It was reported that he was going to make his season debut on the team’s most recent road trip, although that turned out to be too ambitious.
The American netminder was one of just two goalies, alongside Kevin Lankinen, on the ice at practice today, per Sportsnet’s Dan Murphy, giving the first clue that he’s ready. He then spoke to the media and confirmed he was feeling good and could get game action soon.
“Iām at a point now where I could potentially have a discussion with [Tocchet] and be able to back up or what have you between now and the next three games,” said the goalie.
The Canucks host the Columbus Blue Jackets tomorrow night, and it’s possible he could be in the lineup — either as a starter or the backup — for that game.
“It’s just about getting that consistent practice time, it’s been tough with the schedule,” said Demko about his recovery.
The 28-year-old netminder hasn’t played since suffering a knee injury in Game 1 of last year’s playoffs. It’s been a long recovery that has included many ups and downs, but he’s finally ready to return to action.
When healthy, there are few goalies in the world better than Demko. He finished second in Vezina Trophy voting last season despite missing time with an injury.
The Canucks also typically rely on Demko to cover up some of their defensive shortcomings. He helps make them better overall and will be needed even more as the team struggles with injuries on their blue line.
“I’ve been looking forward to it for a while now,” said Demko about his first game back.
The teamĀ receivedĀ excellent goalie play from the free agent signing of Lankinen during Demko’s absence. If the newly healthy goalie can return to full form, it’ll give the Canucks one of the best tandems across the entire NHL.
“I want to give Lanks all the credit in the world, he’s been unbelievable this year. It’s been really fun to get to know him and be able watch him play,” continued Demko.
“Obviously the way Lanks has played kind of takes a little bit of pressure off myself, to come in and not feel like I have to save the world.”
The Canucks will likely ease Demko back into full-time duty and have a more than capable option in Lankinen to use while they do so.
āIām a guy thatās day-to-day. Bank what I was able to get done today, move forward to whatever tomorrow brings.ā
š£ Hear from Thatcher Demko following Thursday's practice at Rogers Arena. pic.twitter.com/N8O2eWytbr
— Vancouver Canucks (@Canucks) December 5, 2024