The Vancouver Canucks are implementing a strategic goaltending rotation as they navigate a demanding stretch of their NHL schedule. While starter Thatcher Demko participated in Sunday's morning skate, backup Kevin Lankinen will receive his second consecutive start in net against the high-powered Colorado Avalanche at Rogers Arena.
Goaltending Rotation Takes Center Stage
With a condensed schedule ahead, the Canucks are prioritizing keeping their number-one goaltender fresh. Jiri Patera, recently recalled, will serve as Lankinen's backup for the Monday night matchup. This decision comes on the heels of Lankinen's 29-save performance in a 4-3 victory over the Columbus Blue Jackets on Saturday. The Finnish netminder was informed of the decision after that game, though he prepared as if he might play, adhering to the team's request.
Lankinen Faces Tough Avalanche Test
Lankinen's assignment is a formidable one. He will be tasked with slowing down the red-hot Colorado Avalanche, who boast a 9-1-5 record and are coming off a dominant 9-1 win against the Edmonton Oilers. The Canucks' goalie will need to be sharp against the dynamic offensive duo of Nathan MacKinnon and Martin Necas, who have combined for 21 goals and 42 points this season. Lankinen does have experience with back-to-back starts from the previous season, having played in consecutive games against Montreal and Calgary in March 2025.
Demko's Return Imminent
The plan for Demko appears to be a short-term rest. Head coach Adam Foote indicated that his starter is likely to return to the crease very soon. "Thatcher felt good, he had a good day," Foote stated on Sunday. "For me, it looks like he will (play) Tuesday." This would line up Demko for the home game against the Winnipeg Jets, kicking off another busy week that includes a three-game southeastern road trip crammed into just four days.
Demko's season statistics currently sit at 5-4-0 with a 2.57 goals-against average and a .912 save percentage. Lankinen, who has shared the workload, holds a record of 3-4-0 with a 3.54 GAA and an .884 save percentage. The team's deliberate management of Demko's workload underscores their long-term view for success throughout the gruelling NHL calendar.
