Canucks - It's now up to Dakota Joshua when he wants to return to full contact, but is he ready?
The Vancouver Canucks are eagerly anticipating the return of forward Dakota Joshua, who was fully involved in practice today, according to team insider Jeff Paterson.
Head coach Rick Tocchet shared some insight on Joshua's recovery process, noting that while doctors will have the final say, the decision to shed the non-contact jersey ultimately rests with Joshua himself. The coaching staff is hopeful to see Joshua participate in more physical drills, including 2-on-2 situations, to ensure he's fully prepared for game action. Tocchet emphasized that no matter how much conditioning a player undergoes, the final step is always absorbing contact and regaining the feel of real gameplay.
Joshua's journey back has been nothing short of inspiring. Before training camp, Joshua disclosed a personal battle: he was diagnosed with early-stage testicular cancer, a reality that stunned the 27-year-old forward and the Canucks community. He promptly underwent surgery, a necessary step that forced him to miss training camp to focus on recovery. Fortunately, Joshua's progress has been positive so far, and the fact that he was a full participant in today's practice is a promising sign that he's nearing a return to full health.
For the Canucks, getting Joshua back in the lineup would be a major boost. Joshua has been a key depth player for Vancouver, adding toughness and defensive responsibility to the team's bottom-six forward group. Last season, Joshua became a fan favorite, earning respect for his relentless work ethic and ability to win battles along the boards. His presence brings an extra layer of intensity to Vancouver's lineup, something Tocchet will be pleased to have as the team progresses through the regular season.
Joshua's potential return is also a testament to his mental and physical resilience. Overcoming a cancer diagnosis and subsequent surgery is challenging enough without factoring in the demands of professional hockey. Joshua's determination to return to game shape speaks volumes about his character and commitment to his team.
As the Canucks continue their season, the next steps for Joshua will be crucial. If he clears the contact drills without setbacks, it's possible that fans could see him back in action sooner rather than later. His return would not only mark a personal victory but also serve as a rallying point for a Canucks team looking to build momentum.
