The Canucks’ latest roster move underscores their confidence in Thatcher Demko…
Vancouver Canucks GM Patrik Allvin announced Friday that goaltender Arturs Silovs has been reassigned to the AHL’s Abbotsford Canucks, reducing the NHL roster to just two goalies.
This leaves Thatcher Demko and Kevin Lankinen as the team’s only netminders, a duo that has rarely been healthy simultaneously this season. Demko had a delayed start due to a knee injury, while reports suggest Lankinen may not be at full strength either. However, the decision to send Silovs back signals the organization’s faith in both, particularly in Demko, to carry the team through the rest of the season—playoffs or not.
Demko recently returned after missing over a month due to injury, having last played on February 8. Prior to that, he had been in top form, and early signs indicate he has maintained that level of play since his return.
Silovs, primarily used as an emergency option, appeared in just one game in March—a 6-2 victory over the Chicago Blackhawks, where he made 17 saves. Overall, he played 10 games this season, recording a 2-6-1 record with a 3.65 GAA and a .861 save percentage—numbers that suggest he was not a reliable option.
The Canucks have likely determined that either Demko or Lankinen is healthy enough to see out the season. If needed, Silovs could be recalled on an emergency basis, though the team is limited to two more call-ups after the trade deadline.
With nine games remaining, Demko has a crucial opportunity to solidify his standing as the Canucks’ top goaltender, especially as he approaches unrestricted free agency in 2026.
