Demko Returns To The Canucks Lineup, Will Back Up Against The Blue Jackets

For the first time this season, Thatcher Demko will be in the lineup for the Vancouver Canucks. Last year's Vezina Trophy runner-up will back up Kevin Lankinen as the Canucks take on the Columbus Blue Jackets. Demko hasn't played since April 21, as he has been recovering from a popliteus injury.

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Rick Tocchet confirmed Demko's return to the lineup at morning skate on Friday. When asked about what Demko's return to the lineup means to the team, Tocchet said, "He's a leader on the team, a different type of leader. He's just a glue guy. The guy works awfully hard. He's spent a lot of time by himself working out. He's here at 7 am working with one trainer. What's contagious to me is the hard work he does. When the young guys see this stuff, just how dedicated he is. That really helps our locker room."

As mentioned, Demko finished second in Veznia voting during the 2023-24 season. In 51 games, he posted a record of 35-14-2, along with a career-high five shutouts. Demko also won his only playoff start last year, stopping 22 of 24 shots in Game 1 against the Nashville Predators.

Demko's ability to back up means he should get his first start of the season soon. Vancouver is about to start a six-game home stand, with the final game scheduled for December 16 against the Colorado Avalanche. While it may take some time for him to get back up to game speed, Demko should play a significant role with the Canucks for the rest of the season.