Canucks Injury Updates on Key Players Thatcher Demko, Brock Boeser, Elias Pettersson, and Tucker Poolman…
The Vancouver Canucks are dealing with significant injuries among some of their most important players, which impact their offseason plans for the draft, free agency, and trades. Here’s the latest on these key players as training camp approaches:
Thatcher Demko
Thatcher Demko had an outstanding season, earning 35 wins, a 2.45 GAA, and a .918 save percentage, becoming a Vezina Trophy finalist. However, a knee injury in March sidelined him for 14 games, and a subsequent knee issue in the first playoff game ended his season. Though he was close to returning in the series against the Oilers and would have been available for the next round, the Canucks’ season ended. Concerns remain about his durability, as injuries have plagued him since becoming the primary goalie. Discussions during his end-of-season press conference included system tweaks and reducing his workload, emphasizing the need for a reliable backup. Demko remains the Canucks’ main hope in net as long as he stays healthy.
Brock Boeser
Brock Boeser finally had a breakout season, leading the team with 40 goals and continuing his form into the playoffs with seven goals and 12 points in 12 games. However, he developed a blood clot before Game 7 against the Oilers, ending his season. Boeser expressed his disappointment but is expected to be ready for training camp, according to GM Patrik Allvin. Recent reports confirm that Boeser is working out and on track for the upcoming season.
Elias Pettersson
Elias Pettersson was poised for another stellar season, following a career-high 102 points in 2022-23. He started strong with 64 points in 49 games but saw a decline after signing an eight-year contract extension, managing only six points in 13 crucial games. Pettersson later revealed he had been dealing with a knee injury since January, which some within the organization were unaware of. This discrepancy raised questions, but Pettersson’s agent defended his honesty about the injury. Despite the controversy, it appears Pettersson will be ready for training camp.
Tucker Poolman
Tucker Poolman missed the entire past season due to ongoing neurological issues from migraines, which also limited him to just three games the previous season. Poolman, who signed a four-year, $10 million deal in July 2021, has only played 43 games for the Canucks. With his $2.5 million annual salary on Long-Term Injured Reserve, the Canucks may look for a trade partner, but he is likely to remain on LTIR for the final season of his contract.
