Thatcher Demko Takes Subtle Shot at Former Coach in First Game Back From Injury

Demko customized his gear to be entirely black in his first game back from injury, something that had been a contentious issue between the Canucks goalie and his coach.

When the Canucks brought back the Black Skate jersey, Thatcher Demko wanted to pay tribute to former goalie Kirk McLean, but the idea was shot down by Ian Clark.

It's certainly curious that Demko jumped at the opportunity to change his gear immediately upon return from injury, and playing his first games since the Canucks relieved Clark.

Before the season began, the Canucks relocated Clark away from his goalie coach duties, now working in Canucks' player development.

There's been numerous contentious reports surrounding Thatcher Demko's injury and the Canucks handling of it, which potentially influenced Vancouver's decision to move off him.

Demko has missed the entirety of this season with a highly unique knee injury that he'll have to play through for the rest of his career. He should still be able to be the elite goalie he's always been, as Demko likely played through the injury last year and posted a .918 save percentage in 51 games.

The Vancouver Canucks took the Edmonton Oilers to 7 games in last year's playoff series without their elite starting goaltender. Now that he's back and healthy, the Canucks could be a force to be reckoned with.