The Vancouver Canucks will be without their starting goaltender for Saturday's matchup against the Columbus Blue Jackets as Thatcher Demko has been ruled out and won't dress for the game.
Unexpected Lineup Change
In a surprising development for the team, Thatcher Demko will not be available when the Vancouver Canucks face the Columbus Blue Jackets. The decision was confirmed on November 08, 2025, though the specific reasons behind Demko's absence weren't immediately disclosed.
Demko last appeared in net for the Canucks during their game against the Minnesota Wild on November 1, 2025, where he made several key saves in the first period at St. Paul, Minnesota. His absence creates a significant challenge for the team as they prepare to take on the Blue Jackets.
Impact on Canucks' Goaltending Strategy
The Canucks now face important decisions regarding their goaltending lineup. With Demko unavailable, the team will likely turn to their backup options to handle the netminding duties against Columbus.
This development comes at a crucial point in the early season, where every game matters for playoff positioning. The Canucks' coaching staff will need to adjust their strategy accordingly without their primary goaltender available for selection.
Looking Ahead for Vancouver
While Demko's exact return timeline remains uncertain, the team will be hoping this is a short-term absence rather than a long-term concern. The Canucks organization has not provided additional details about whether this is related to injury, illness, or other factors.
Fans and analysts will be watching closely to see how the team adapts without their starting netminder and who steps up to fill the void in this important conference matchup.
