Canucks: Thatcher Demko misses practice to recover from grind

Canucks: Thatcher Demko Misses Practice to Recover

The Vancouver Canucks' demanding schedule early in the season is starting to take a toll on their goaltenders. Thatcher Demko missed Friday’s practice at Rogers Arena ahead of the team’s game against the Columbus Blue Jackets.

With back-to-back games Friday and Sunday against the Blue Jackets and the Colorado Avalanche, there was uncertainty about Demko’s availability. To manage this, the Canucks called up Jiri Patera from the AHL Abbotsford on an emergency basis to provide Demko with additional rest.

Demko has not played since Monday’s game in Nashville, and the team had a day off on Thursday, yet concerns arose given his absence from practice. Head coach Adam Foote explained after practice that Demko simply needed extra recovery time amid a hectic schedule.

“This was a case of a player who is in the midst of a very busy schedule needing some extra recovery time.” — Adam Foote

Context on Demko’s Condition and Team Strategy

Demko’s absence was a precaution to ensure he is fresh for upcoming games.
Jiri Patera was called up under emergency conditions as a backup goalie option.
The Canucks have a tough stretch of games with minimal rest, requiring careful management of players’ workload.

This situation highlights the physical demands on NHL players during congested schedules and the importance of managing recovery to maintain performance.

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Author’s summary: The Canucks are managing goalie Thatcher Demko's workload amid a rigorous early-season schedule, highlighting the critical need for rest and recovery in professional hockey.

The Province — 2025-11-08