The Real Reason Thatcher Demko is Missing From the Vancouver Canucks Finally Comes to the Surface

The Real Reason Thatcher Demko is Missing From the Vancouver Canucks Finally Comes to the Surface

On Friday, Vancouver Canucks Head Coach Adam Foote provided an update on Thatcher Demko after the team called up a goaltender from the AHL.

Context of Demko’s Absence

Following numerous injury problems from April 2024 through the end of the 2024-25 season, reports emerged that the Canucks planned to limit Demko's playing time during the 2025-26 season. The goal was to keep his games played around 45-50 instead of exceeding 60.

"Vancouver enters this season with a significant investment in net, one that sets Demko up to be as rested as possible for the pointy end of the campaign when the games matter most. With Kevin Lankinen in tow on an expensive contract for a 1B netminder, the Canucks are hoping to manage Demko's minutes and keep him in and around the 50-start mark this upcoming season." – Thomas Drance, early September

Team Strategy

Photo credit: Bob Frid - Imagn Images.

Author's summary: Vancouver Canucks manage Thatcher Demko’s playing time this season to protect his health and maximize performance during the crucial late stages of the campaign.

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Canucks Daily Canucks Daily — 2025-11-08

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