Canucks' Thatcher Demko to Miss Game 2, Status for Rest of Series in Jeopardy

Karl Rasmussen | Apr 23, 2024

Vancouver Canucks goalie Thatcher Demko (35) / Bob Frid-USA TODAY Sports

The Vancouver Canucks will be without Thatcher Demko for Game 2 against the Nashville Predators on Tuesday night with the star goaltender reportedly dealing with an injury that could potentially sideline him for the remainder of the Canucks' opening round series, according to Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman.

The exact nature of Themko's injury was not specified, but Vancouver coach Rick Tocchet said the goaltender would be absent on Tuesday night and is being considered day-to-day going forward. Demko dealt with a knee injury late into the regular season, missing more than a month of action, but Tocchet indicated this was a separate injury.

Demko started for the Canucks in the series opener at Rogers Arena, recording 20 saves on 22 shot attempts during Vancouver's 4–2 win. It was his third appearance since returning from the knee injury just two games before the end of the regular season.

With Demko unavailable, Casey DeSmith figures to handle goaltending duties for the Canucks in Game 2, and potentially beyond if Demko's injury proves difficult to overcome. DeSmith, 32, featured in 29 games this season and registered a .895 save percentage.

Vancouver holds a 1–0 series lead over the Predators, but the absence of Demko could prove to be a significant blow for the Canucks.