The Vancouver Canucks are set to welcome back Thatcher Demko, their starting goalie, on Thursday when they face the Buffalo Sabres. This matchup is scheduled for 10 p.m. ET and will be broadcast on SNP and MSG-B.
Thatcher Demko’s Return from Injury
Demko has been sidelined for 12 consecutive games due to a lower-body injury that first appeared during a game against the Winnipeg Jets on November 11. After allowing three goals on just eight shots in that match, he did not participate in the following back-to-back games on November 8 and 9. On December 4, he rejoined his teammates for practice, showing signs of recovery.
“I feel ready to go,” Demko stated after Tuesday’s practice, expressing eagerness to return to action. He described his injury as a minor tweak that required time for healing and practice repetitions.
Demko’s Performance This Season
Demko’s statistics this season reflect a challenging start, with a record of 5-4-0, a 2.80 goals-against average, and a .903 save percentage over ten games. He signed a lucrative three-year contract worth $25.5 million on July 1, which takes effect next season. His commitment to training has been significant, particularly after a knee injury limited him to just 23 games the previous season.
Focus on Team Success
At 30 years old, Demko acknowledged the frustration of dealing with injuries, contributing to his limited playtime. Despite having aspirations for Team USA at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milano Cortina, his primary focus remains on supporting his team, which currently holds a record of 11-16-3 and sits at the bottom of the NHL standings.
- Thatcher Demko: Returning from injury
- Record this season: 5-4-0
- Goals-against average: 2.80
- Save percentage: .903
- Contract: Three years, $25.5 million
Support for Teammates
Demko emphasizes the importance of being available for his teammates, stating, “I want to be impactful on a consistent basis.” The Canucks have struggled lately, with only two wins in their last ten games.
Elias Pettersson’s Status
In addition to Demko’s return, center Elias Pettersson is also on the verge of coming back. Pettersson has contributed significantly to the team with 22 points, including eight goals and 14 assists. He has missed the last two games due to an upper-body injury but is expected to participate in upcoming practices.
Canucks coach Adam Foote shared positive updates, indicating that Pettersson has shown improvement and should be fine moving forward.
