The Vancouver Canucks have made a key roster move, sending goaltender Arturs Silovs to the AHL’s Abbotsford Canucks. This decision comes as the team appears ready to hand the starting goalie position back to Thatcher Demko. Silovs, 23, had a promising start with the Canucks, notably stepping in during the 2024 NHL Playoffs. However, this season has been a struggle for him at the NHL level.
Silovs last played on November 27 against the Pittsburgh Penguins, where he allowed five goals on 23 shots. In seven games this season, he has posted a troubling .847 save percentage and a 4.11 goals-against average (GAA). His lone AHL game this year was more positive, as he stopped 23 of 25 shots in a win. However, with Demko’s return from injury and the goaltending situation in Vancouver tightening, Silovs hasn’t seen any game action in the past 10 days.
Although Silovs showed promise during the Canucks’ playoff run last season, he has struggled in the regular season with an .877 save percentage. The organization sees more development in his future, and consistent play in Abbotsford is viewed as beneficial for his growth. With Kevin Lankinen signed to a one-year contract, Silovs may get an opportunity to step up as the Canucks’ backup goalie next season. He is currently on the first year of a two-year deal worth $850,000 per season.
