Thankful and hopeful, Dakota Joshua returns to the Canucks after cancer treatment.
The Vancouver forward is back on the ice with his teammates, though there’s no set timeline for when he’ll play in a game.
Hearing the diagnosis of testicular cancer left Joshua nearly speechless. He’d sensed something was wrong, but the doctor’s confirmation was daunting.
“It’s something you can’t fully prepare for,” Joshua shared on Friday. “But my family, friends, fans, and everyone in the Canucks organization have been incredibly supportive and caring.”
Joshua, now 28, had surgery in early September and has been steadily working towards rejoining the team. Missing both training camp and the season’s early games, he recently rejoined practice sessions and has even dropped the non-contact jersey.
“I’m feeling good and getting better every day,” he said. “It’s been tough to work back, but it’s going well, and I’m just glad to be with the guys.”
Last season, Joshua had a breakout year, scoring 18 goals and 14 assists in 63 games, with an additional four goals and four assists in the playoffs. He signed a four-year, $13 million contract extension this past June.
Canucks head coach Rick Tocchet is eager to see Joshua back, especially for his physical style and strong presence in the lineup.
“He brings an edge with his body positioning, his work along the boards, and just being a tough competitor,” Tocchet said. “He’s the type of player who can energize the team.”
Joshua’s goal is more than just being on the ice; he wants to make a difference.
“I’m here to contribute and help the team win,” he emphasized. “I’m not sure exactly when, but I’m close and feeling better daily.”
Staying around his teammates has been essential for Joshua’s recovery. He’s even joined the team on road trips and has remained a locker room staple, which Tocchet values.
“The best part of this job is the camaraderie with the guys,” Joshua said. “I’m grateful to be part of it and to do this every day.”
The Canucks, with a 4-2-3 record, are set to start a three-game California road trip on Saturday against the San Jose Sharks.
