The Vancouver Canucks have made roster adjustments following a string of injuries. Forward Elias Pettersson has been placed on injured reserve retroactive to December 23, and goaltender Arturs Silovs has been recalled on an emergency basis to fill in for Thatcher Demko.
Pettersson’s Status
Pettersson has been sidelined since a pre-holiday game against the San Jose Sharks due to an undisclosed injury. While his move to IR is procedural, the Canucks expect him to rejoin the lineup during their upcoming five-game road trip starting Monday.
Demko’s Uncertain Condition
Thatcher Demko left Thursday’s game against the Seattle Kraken in the second period and was absent from practice on Friday. This raises concerns, particularly given his recent recovery from a serious popliteal muscle injury that kept him out for eight months.
Arturs Silovs’ Opportunity
Silovs steps into a pivotal role with Demko unavailable. Though he struggled in his early NHL appearances this season (1-4-1, .847 SV%, 4.11 GAA), he has shown improvement with the Abbotsford Canucks in the AHL, posting a .900 save percentage and 2.44 GAA in five games. Silovs aims to prove he can be a reliable backup for the Canucks.
Canucks Outlook
The Canucks face a challenging stretch as they manage injuries to key players. Pettersson’s imminent return offers some hope, but Demko’s status remains a significant concern for the team’s playoff aspirations. Silovs will be under the spotlight as he works to seize this opportunity and stabilize Vancouver’s goaltending situation.
