Vancouver Canucks get concerning report on Thatcher Demko's health

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Liam McCormick
August 20, 2024 (12:03)

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Training camp is now only a few weeks away, and Canucks starting goaltender Thatcher Demko still has no timetable for a return to play.

According to a new report from Canucks insider Rick Dhaliwal on Sportsnet Radio, Demko is still not close to 100% healthy. The Canucks began to become concerned about his status heading into next season around the Draft, and although he is progressing in his rehabilitation, it's not progressing as fast as they expected. Now with uncertainty around Demko's status again, the Canucks may explore the goalie market in free agency again.

Demko sustained a knee injury in March of last season, but was able to return for the playoffs. Then, in the first game against the Nashville Predators, Demko sustained yet another knee injury and was out for the rest of the year. He's had a history of some unfortunate injuries in his career which have led to some concerns about his durability as a full time starter, but when he's available, he's a game breaking goaltender. Last season, Demko posted an impressive .918 save percentage in 51 games.

It's concerning that Demko isn't progressing as well as the team hoped, but the Canucks aren't sound alarm bells just yet - they do seem to expect him back next season at some point.

To give some insurance in the crease with the young Arturs Silovs, the Vancouver Canucks are looking to sign a goaltender to a tryout contract according to Rick Dhaliwal. Some unsigned free agents at the moment include Martin Jones, Antti Raanta, David Rittich, and Alex Stalock - all veteran backup goaltenders. If Demko will be injured for a significant time to begin next season, it's likely they'll reach out to sign one of these veteran goalies.

The Canucks took a great step last season by making the playoffs and taking the Oilers to Game 7 in the playoffs without their elite starting goalie. As long as the Canucks can stay afloat without him in the regular season, they could begin to emerge as a real playoff threat if he is healthy.