Canucks linked to three netminder: The concern for Thatcher Demko is real
When their season ended after the second round's game seven against the Edmonton Oilers, the Canucks were confident they'd be starting their season on the right foot, with their star netminder Thatcher Demko between the pipes.
While Arturs Silovs is expected to be the trusted man to guard the net, the backup job is catching attention to a certain degree. Given that the gravity of Demko's injury and the longevity of his absence have not been disclosed yet, the Canucks were linked to three goaltenders who could work with the team during the Vezina Nominee's absence.
Antti Raanta
35-year-old Antti Raanta could be a solid choice. Raanta's experience and recent AHL play suggest he could serve as a temporary backup or third-string option, challenging Arturs Silovs during camp.
Martin Jones
Alternatively, North Vancouver native Martin Jones, at 34, presents another option. Although there are retirement rumors, Jones might consider signing with his hometown team if he's assured NHL playing time, especially if Demko's absence extends beyond camp.
Lastly, Kevin Lankinen is arguably the best free-agent goaltender available, having performed admirably as a backup in recent seasons. However, Lankinen may be hesitant to join Vancouver unless Demko's injury keeps him sidelined for an extended period. At 29, Lankinen would prefer a situation where he can play regularly in the NHL rather than risk being relegated to the AHL, making Vancouver a less attractive destination unless Demko's recovery is delayed.
It's been confirmed that Lankinen had been in touch with the Canucks already, It's confirmed for the Canucks: Patrik Allvin's primary target to replace Thatcher Demko identified, hopefully those were only preliminary talks and nothing serious came out of it. Otherwise, it could mean that the Canucks are looking to start the season with a rookie as their number one netminder.
Source: Canucks Army
3 goaltenders the Canucks could sign in accordance with 3 different outcomes to Demko's status
| POLL | ||
Do you have trust in a Lankinen, Silovs duo to start the season? | ||
| Yes | 20 | 90.9 % |
| No | 2 | 9.1 % |
| List of polls | ||
