Thatcher Demko injury update: Insider reveals Canucks goaltender's status

By Vignesh Krishnan

Modified Mar 13, 2024 16:04 GMT

Vancouver Canucks goaltender Thatcher Demko was hurt in a 5-0 win over the Winnipeg Jets on Saturday. .

He left the ice in the second period with an undisclosed injury after making a save on a Vladislav Namestnikov wrist shot from the top of the crease. He struggled to get up following the save and was eventually replaced by backup goalie Casey DeSmith.

According to NHL Insider Rick Dhaliwal, Demko is not expected to be sidelined for the long term and will only miss a few games.

"Demko will miss a few games, expect the Canucks to call up a goalie. It’s not his groin or a previous injury," Dhaliwal said on X.

NHL Insider Irfaan Gaffar also took to X to share his opinion on the potential return date for the Canucks goalie.

"Demko missing the next little bit isn’t the worst thing for Canucks. Get him as much rest as possible. After COL on Wednesday, VAN play WAS, BUF, MTL and CAL. All very manageable games for DeSmith," Gaffar said.

He went on to add when Demko could be back in goal for the Canucks,

"25th vs DAL or 28th vs LA should be realistic return for 35," he added.

Demko has a career-high save percentage of .917, ranking him among the league's finest goalies. The return of a goaltender who can provide such reliability will be a huge boost to the roster ahead of the playoffs.