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Analyst confident in Canucks' defense amid uncertainty over Thatcher Demko's readiness
As the Vancouver Canucks approach the new NHL season, fans are eagerly waiting for updates on Thatcher Demko’s health. NHL analyst Harman Dayal recently shared his thoughts, which may ease some concerns. In a video shared by @CanucksArmy on X/Twitter, Dayal expressed confidence in the team’s defense, even with Demko's status in question.
Dayal mentioned that if Demko isn’t ready by October, it could have been a major issue in the past. However, he noted that this year’s Canucks team is stronger:
"If it ever got to this point, and we don't even know if it's going to get to this point," Dayal said. "But if we do reach October and he's not ready for the start of the regular season, we know that the Canucks are good enough defensively, are good enough top to bottom that they can still win games without, without Thatcher Demko."
He added that if Demko returns at his best, the team’s performance could improve even more.
Dayal believes the Canucks have improved and are better prepared for Demko’s possible absence, with their strong defense offering a positive outlook ahead of the new season.
Canucks face goalie uncertainty as Thatcher Demko's injury status remains unclear
Vancouver is dealing with uncertainty in goal as Thatcher Demko is out with a knee injury from last season's playoffs. He got hurt in the first game against the Nashville Predators and hasn’t played since. With the regular season opener against the Calgary Flames on Oct. 9, his return in time remains uncertain, though there is some hope:
"Multiple sources say Thatcher Demko won’t be ready for training camp and preseason games. The club is hopeful he is ready for the regular season opener but even that seems to be in question at this late stage of the summer," NHL Insider Rick Dhaliwal shared on X.
The Athletic's Thomas Drance reported the specifics of Demko's injury remain unclear. There are speculations about an ACL tear and possible surgery, but nothing has been confirmed yet (via NYTimes.com):
"There’s a bit of a cone of silence around exactly what’s occurring here. To this point, no one close to the situation will confirm whether or not Demko underwent a surgical procedure this summer," Drance said.
To address the issue, the Canucks are currently exploring goaltending options. They are reportedly considering free agent Kevin Lankinen, who played for the Nashville Predators, along with Antti Raanta and Martin Jones. The team has also re-signed Arturs Silovs and added Jiri Patera, though both have less experience compared to Demko.
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