The Vancouver Canucks’ demanding schedule early in the season is starting to take a toll on their goaltenders. To provide extra rest for Thatcher Demko, the team has recalled Jiri Patera from AHL Abbotsford under emergency conditions.
Demko missed Friday’s practice at Rogers Arena, just one day before a home game against the Columbus Blue Jackets and a back-to-back matchup with the Colorado Avalanche on Sunday. His absence has sparked concern among fans, especially since he hasn’t played since Monday’s game in Nashville and the team had Thursday off.
“This is simply a case of a player going through a heavy schedule who needs additional recovery time,” said Canucks head coach Adam Foote after practice.
With the back-to-back games approaching, Demko’s participation remains uncertain. Fans and analysts alike are watching closely to see how Vancouver manages its goalie rotation during this demanding stretch.
The Canucks gave Thatcher Demko a brief rest amid a tough schedule, calling up Jiri Patera as backup while managing concerns over goalie fatigue.