Joseph LaBate has officially returned to the Vancouver Canucks lineup after a lengthy absence. The 32-year-old forward is set to play against the Pittsburgh Penguins, marking a significant milestone in his career. LaBate’s journey back to the NHL has been filled with obstacles and a deep passion for the game.
LaBate’s Return to the NHL
LaBate last played for the Canucks over eight and a half years ago, participating in 13 games during his previous stint. Since then, he managed to play only six NHL games. His absence was largely due to injuries and a lengthy recovery process following major hip surgery.
Career Timeline
- LaBate was drafted six years before his last game.
- He played his final match for the Canucks on March 28, 2017, against the Anaheim Ducks.
- After three seasons with the Canucks, he played in the American Hockey League (AHL) for teams including the Ottawa Senators’ farm team and later in Chicago.
- During the 2023-24 season, he played in the Kontinental Hockey League in Kazakhstan.
- He signed a one-year, two-way contract with the Columbus Blue Jackets, where he played six games last season.
LaBate was signed as a free agent by the Canucks on July 1. His return is timely, as several teammates, including Filip Chytil, Jonathan Lekkerimaki, and Teddy Blueger, are sidelined due to injuries. Additionally, Brock Boeser, his longtime friend from Burnsville, Minn., missed the morning skate for personal reasons.
Emotional Journey
LaBate expressed that the hardest part of his journey was dealing with setbacks. He mentioned, “You get momentum, and then you get a setback.” His determination to return to the NHL never wavered. LaBate highlighted his passion for hockey and his desire to contribute to the team.
Looking Ahead
Now back with the Canucks, LaBate hopes to score his first NHL goal, an achievement that has eluded him for 32 years. He is prepared to play with intensity on the fourth line alongside fellow call-up Nils Aman and Drew O’Connor.
This comeback represents the culmination of eleven years as a professional hockey player, with 460 AHL games and 19 NHL games under his belt. LaBate’s story is one of resilience, and he is eager to make an impact on the ice as he returns to the league he loves.
