Thatcher Demko set to miss remainder of the first round due to injury

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Hunter Bowman
April 23, 2024 (3:02 PM)

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The Vancouver Canucks playoff aspirations have taken a serious hit with their top goaltender, Thatcher Demko, sidelined due to injury.

After three consecutive years of missing the Stanley Cup Playoffs, the Canucks are dealt a blow as Demko, their key netminder, is out with an injury. Adding to their woes, Demko's return for the first-round series against the Nashville Predators is uncertain.

"Hearing Thatcher Demko injured and questionable for rest of series."

This means Casey DeSmith is likely to step into the starting goalie role for tonight's Game 2 against the Predators, and possibly for the remainder of the series. DeSmith saw action in 29 regular-season games for Vancouver in 2023-24, posting a record of 12-9-6 with a .896 save percentage. Arturs Silovs will serve as the backup.

Casey DeSmith going through drills at #Canucks morning skate

Demko had already missed 14 regular-season games near the end of the season due to a knee injury. While there's no official word on his current ailment, he did receive treatment after the Game 1 victory.

Demko not on the ice for #Canucks at morning skate. Got treatment after game 1 and did not skate yesterday. Stay tuned

A two-time All-Star, Demko has been a mainstay with the Vancouver Canucks since being drafted by the team in the second round in 2014.