The Vancouver Canucks are turning back to Kevin Lankinen in goal as they navigate through another injury absence of starter Thatcher Demko, while young forward Jonathan Lekkerimaki receives another chance to make his mark at the NHL level.
Lankinen's Return Amid Goaltending Challenges
Kevin Lankinen returns to the net for Saturday night's game in Los Angeles after missing two contests for personal reasons. The veteran netminder faces the difficult task of being the primary goaltender during Demko's recovery from a November 11 groin injury.
Lankinen's statistics this season reflect the challenge of stepping into the starter's role. He currently sports a 4-7-2 record with a 3.63 goals-against average and .880 save percentage. Despite these bloated numbers, the Finnish goaltender has shown flashes of brilliance with 31- and 36-save victories earlier this campaign.
The contrast to last season is particularly striking. During the 2024-25 campaign, Lankinen set an NHL record by winning his first 10 road games, eclipsing the previous mark shared by Glenn Hall (1965-66) and Cam Talbot (2022-23).
Lekkerimaki's Development Opportunity
Meanwhile, Jonathan Lekkerimaki, the 15th overall pick in the 2022 draft, gets another opportunity to establish himself at hockey's highest level. The 21-year-old Swedish winger has managed just one goal in four games this season and four goals in 28 career NHL appearances.
While Lekkerimaki possesses undeniable offensive tools—including a quick, natural release and improved game awareness—the young forward must elevate his compete level to access prime scoring areas. His waiver-exempt status means he'll continue to see games with the Canucks, but the organization expects more than just injury-replacement performances from the promising prospect.
Coach Adam Foote emphasized the need for quicker transitions in his pre-game address, stating he wants to see the team "reload a little bit faster" to facilitate offensive opportunities.
Roster Updates and Lineup Changes
The Canucks made several roster moves ahead of the Los Angeles contest. Jiri Patera was returned to the AHL's Abbotsford Canucks, while injured winger Nils Hoglander continues to practice with the team.
In other lineup news, winger Conor Garland will be unavailable for Saturday's game, though Foote didn't provide specific details about the reason for his absence. Aatu Raty will take the lineup spot of Lukas Reichel as the Canucks look to improve their standing in the Pacific Division.
As Demko continues skating in Vancouver during his recovery, the team will rely on Lankinen to recapture the road form that made him record-setting last season, while hoping Lekkerimaki can translate his considerable skills into consistent NHL production.
