Thatcher Demko injury: Friedman claims Canucks goalie "may not be ready" for start of the season

Vancouver Canucks goaltender Thatcher Demko might be sidelined on opening night, insider Elliotte Friedman claims.

During a recent Donnie and Dhali Podcast appearance, Friedman discussed the latest Demko health updates. According to Friedman, the Vancouver Canucks aren’t ready to hit the panic button just yet.

However, there are severe concerns about Demko’s status to begin the season. Friedman stated:

“I do believe the Canucks are not panicking that this is going to be half the season or threaten his season or anything like that.”

Friedman underscored:

“But I believe there's an understanding that he may not be ready for the start of the year.”

Friedman then made an interesting remark about Demko and Canucks’ goaltending coach Ian Clark:

“I do not blame Ian Clark for this. He's one of the best at what he does, but the Canucks do feel Demko was working too hard.”

The Canucks want Demko to rest as much as possible to allow his body to recover. Friedman concluded:

“Rest is going to be something Demko will have to do more of now.”

While Vancouver faces the prospect of opening the season without its starting goalie, questions about the team’s ability to contend in the Western Conference have surfaced.

That stated, the Canucks might need alternative goaltending help until Demko is healthy.

Arturs Silovs poised to take over for Thatcher Demko

With Thatcher Demko out, Arturs Silovs should start in his place. While Silovs isn't guaranteed to have the role, no one is ahead of him on the depth chart.

The departure of last year’s backup, Casey DeSmith, leaves Silovs as the de facto starter. Last postseason, Silovs filled in for Demko and DeSmith. The up-and-comer played well in the Canucks’ second-round playoff series against Edmonton.

This fall, however, it seems the 23-year-old Latvian will take early command of the crease. Silovs has played only nine regular season NHL games, posting a 2.62 GAA and an .898 SV%.

He’s played in more playoff games than regular-season contests, starting 10 postseason matchups last year.

If Silov’s playoff performance is any indication, the Canucks may have a suitable temporary replacement for Demko.