The most likely Vancouver Canucks to lose their job when Dakota Joshua returns to the lineup
Vancouver Canucks fan favorite Dakota Joshua is almost ready to come back to the lineup, and some insiders indicate it could be as soon as next game, but one question remains, who gets taken out of the lineup when he comes back?
After receiving scary news that he was diagnosed with testicular cancer over the summer, Joshua had successful surgery to remove the cancerous lump. Fans were relieved that he is now in good healthm but it did leave him sidelined though training camp and the start of the 2024-2025 season.
It was released today that he partook in his first full practice with out a red non-contact jersey, indicating he is closer than ever to returning to the Canucks Lineup.
Head Coach Rick Tocchet did speak to the media after practice today to update Canucks fans on his progression. He did say that there is no plan for Joshua to go down to the AHL to get some reps in, most likely he will jump right into action and he monitor his minutes closely .
Which Vancouver Canucks forward loses their job when Dakota Joshua returns?
First and foremost, Joshua is only going to make the Canucks a much better team, and a much deeper team as well. But who loses their spot as a regular in the lineup?
It will be a a battle between Nils Hoglander and Danton Heinen for who slides down to the 4th line. Even though Hoglander scored 24 goals last year, Heinen has gotten off to a hot start and earned his spot on the third line.
Most likely, Daniel Sprong and Arshdeep Bains will be in and out of the lineup fighting for that final roster spot, and as it looks right now, Bains has been more steady, especially after scoring his first goal of his young NHL career just a few nights ago.
Projected Lineup
Line 1: Jake DeBrusk - J.T. Miller - Brock Boeser
Line 2: Dakota Joshua - Elias Pettersson - Conor Garland
Line 3: Danton Heinen - Teddy Blueger - Kiefer Sherwood
Line 4: Nils Hoglander - Pius Suter - Daniel Sprong/Arshdeep Bains
What do you think of this predication?
| POLL | ||
Who would you rather have in the Vancouver Canucks lineup? | ||
| Arshdeep Bains | 178 | 41.7 % |
| Daniel Sprong | 249 | 58.3 % |
| List of polls | ||
