Canucks: Thatcher Demko misses practice to recover from grind

Canucks: Thatcher Demko Misses Practice to Recover

The Vancouver Canucks’ demanding early-season schedule appears to be impacting their goaltenders. Thatcher Demko missed Friday’s practice at Rogers Arena as the team prepared to face the Columbus Blue Jackets.

With back-to-back games on Saturday and Sunday against Columbus and the Colorado Avalanche, respectively, Demko’s availability was uncertain. To manage his workload, the Canucks called up goalie Jiri Patera from the AHL’s Abbotsford under emergency conditions.

Demko has not played since Monday's game in Nashville, and with the team having a day off on Thursday, his absence raised concerns among fans and analysts.

“This was a case of a player who is in the midst of a very busy schedule needing some extra recovery time,” said Canucks head coach Adam Foote after practice.

The Canucks are navigating a tough stretch, and managing player fatigue remains a priority as the season progresses.

Author’s summary: The Canucks are addressing player fatigue in their grueling schedule by resting goalie Thatcher Demko, emphasizing recovery amid back-to-back games.

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The Province The Province — 2025-11-08

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