NHL insider shells crucial updates on Vancouver Canucks goaltending amid injury scare to goalie-duo
On September 3, sports reporter Rick Dhaliwal shared positive updates on the goaltending situation of the Vancouver Canucks. One of his updates was that Thatcher Demko is ready to resume hockey training. This is a good sign, as there were concerns that Demko might not be ready for training camp.
"The Canucks goaltending situation is the number one story going into training camp this month," Dhaliwal said. "I just wanted to give a bit of an update on the training camp goaltending situation. Some good news: I am hearing that Thatcher Demko is back skating and working out on the ice this week. That's a very good sign."
Demko hurt his knee in March and missed 14 games. He came back for the end of the regular season, but got injured again in their first playoff game; thus missing the rest of the playoffs. After the team lost in the second round, Demko said he could have played in the Western Conference Final if the team made it that far.
Demko's rehab over the summer was slower than expected. However, his return to the ice suggests he could be ready for the upcoming season.
The Vancouver Canucks are also pursuing unrestricted free agent Kevin Lankinen. Dhaliwal reported that the team made an offer to the Finnish goaltender, but the deal has yet to come to fruition.
"Canucks continue to pursue UFA goaltender Kevin Lankinen. The club has made Lankinen an offer... We'll see where that ends up."
In addition to updates on Demko and the pursuit of Lankinen, Dhaliwal also shared news about Arturs Silovs.
"Arturs Silovs is dealing with inflammation in his knee, although it's not expected that it's a serious injury. Silov left Latvia today. He should arrive in Vancouver soon and get checked out by the Canucks doctors."
As the Vancouver Canucks prepare for training camp and the preseason, their key focus remains on the health of their goaltenders.
Vancouver Canucks 2024 training camp details and ticket information
The Vancouver Canucks will hold their 2024 training camp from September 19 to 22 in Penticton, British Columbia. Tickets will go on sale on September 4 at 12PM PT, starting at $10 for single-day tickets and $32 for the scrimmage on Sunday. Limited ticket packages are also available for $50.
A $50 package includes tickets to all four days of training camp, including the scrimmage. Season ticket holders and others with early access will get presale details via email. Tickets can either be purchased online at ValleyFirstTix.com or at the event center's box office.
Doors will open at 9 AM daily, with skate sessions happening from 9:30 AM to 1:30 PM. On the final day, the scrimmage will begin at noon.
The camp will also feature fan activities such as a "Party on the Plaza" and clinics for minor hockey players and referees.