Vancouver Canucks fans recently experienced a wave of excitement as footage of goaltender Thatcher Demko surfaced, showcasing him skating after the team’s optional practice. The sight of Demko on the ice, working diligently with coaches, generated a buzz among supporters eager for his return. However, many fans are left wondering just how close he is to being game-ready.
Daily Faceoff’s Frank Seravalli released the video, highlighting Demko’s intense effort in his training regimen. At 28 years old, the goalie is clearly dedicated to regaining his form, but the drills he was seen performing suggest that he still has a significant journey ahead before he can return to competitive play.
The Canucks have been somewhat reticent regarding the details of Demko’s recovery process. Although he is participating in on-ice workouts, the coaching staff appears cautious about allowing him to engage fully in practices. Currently, there’s no established timeline for his return to action, which leaves fans hopeful yet anxious.
While the Canucks are managing to stay competitive in the Pacific Division—holding the third position—they face challenges without their star goalie. Demko is known for his game-changing capabilities, and the team may struggle to maintain their current performance level without him. His last appearance was during a playoff match against the Nashville Predators, where he helped secure a 4-2 victory. Since then, he has been rehabilitating from a knee injury, with the organization indicating they expect him back at some point this season.
The Canucks’ management and coaching team are clearly taking a cautious approach to Demko’s recovery, prioritizing his long-term health over a rushed return. Nevertheless, the video footage does raise questions about how soon fans can anticipate seeing him back in the net.
