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Thatcher Demko, Canucks goalie, returns to skating after injury
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    Thatcher Demko, Canucks goalie, returns to skating after injury

    The Vancouver Canucks are finally getting some good news on the goalie front.

    Just over a week after it was first reported that Thatcher Demko suffered a setback in his rehab and may not be ready for the pre-season, the star goaltender is back to skating, Sportsnet can confirm.

    CHEK’s Rick Dhaliwal was the first to report the news.

    Dhaliwal also reported that while this may not change his status for training camp and the pre-season, it’s a sign of major progress for the 28-year-old netminder, who has spent the entire off-season rehabbing from a knee injury.

    Demko first suffered the injury in March and was sidelined for 14 games. He returned in time to finish out the regular season, but was injured in the Canucks’ first playoff game and missed remainder of their post-season run.

    Though the team was eliminated in the second round in seven games, Demko told reporters in his exit interview that he “probably” would have been available to suit up for any Western Conference Final games, had the team advanced.

    Demko was a Vezina Trophy finalist for the first time this past season. In 51 regular-season starts, the San Diego, Calif., native posted career-bests in save percentage (.918) and goals-against average (2.45) for a 35-14 record.

    He has dealt with a swath of lower-body injuries throughout his seven-year career, including a groin injury in the 2022-23 season that caused him to miss 35 games.

    The Canucks’ training camp will be held in Penticton, B.C., from Sep. 19-22. Their pre-season begins on Sep. 24 when they host the Seattle Kraken.

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    Thatcher Demko, the talented goaltender for the Vancouver Canucks, is making a triumphant return to the ice after suffering a lower-body injury that sidelined him for several weeks. Demko, who has been a key player for the Canucks this season, has been sorely missed by fans and teammates alike during his absence.

    The injury occurred during a game against the Edmonton Oilers in early February, when Demko made an incredible save but landed awkwardly on his leg. Despite initially trying to play through the pain, it soon became clear that he would need to take some time off to recover and heal properly.

    During his time off the ice, Demko focused on his rehabilitation and worked tirelessly with the team’s medical staff to get back to full strength. His determination and dedication to his recovery have paid off, as he has now been cleared to return to skating with the team.

    Demko’s return is a huge boost for the Canucks, who have struggled in his absence. His exceptional goaltending skills and calm demeanor under pressure have been sorely missed, and his presence back in the lineup will undoubtedly provide a much-needed spark for the team.

    Fans are eagerly anticipating Demko’s return to game action, and there is no doubt that he will be welcomed back with open arms by both his teammates and supporters. His resilience and determination in overcoming this injury serve as a testament to his character and commitment to his craft.

    As Demko continues to progress in his recovery and prepares to make his return to the ice, all eyes will be on him as he looks to pick up right where he left off and help lead the Canucks to success in the remainder of the season. With his talent and determination, there is no doubt that Demko will continue to be a force to be reckoned with in the NHL for years to come.