Thatcher Demko injury update: What happened to Canucks goaltender?

Vancouver Canucks starting goaltender Thatcher Demko left Saturday night’s contest against the Toronto Maple Leafs through the first period. Demko was between the pipes to start the game but apparently tweaked something during warmups. Here’s a look:

During Thatcher Demko’s usual preparation, the lateral movement in the crease appears to have aggravated something.

According to renowned sports physician Harjas Grewal, the injury could be related to back spasms from earlier this season or perhaps another lingering issue such as a groin pull.

Coach Rick Tocchet pulled Demko 10 minutes into the opening frame in favor of backup Kevin Lankinen. Demko had made six saves before getting the hook. At the moment, it seems like a precautionary measure on the part of the Canucks.

Nevertheless, the club confirmed Demko would not return to the game.

There is no word on what the injury could be, though the likeliest situation is a lower-body injury. With the 4 Nations Face-Off break coming up, Demko will be evaluated and have time to rest the injury before the Canucks hit the ice again on February 22 against the Vegas Golden Knights.

Tocchet talks about Thatcher Demko injury following game

Following the Vancouver Canucks’ 2-1 win over the Toronto Maple Leafs, coach Rick Tocchet spoke to the media. The discussion almost immediately turned to Thatcher Demko as the media sought more information about the netminder’s status.

Tocchet addressed the media, providing a reassuring update. Here’s what Tocchet stated per Canucks’ insider Brendan Batchelor:

“Something happened during the game. I don't think it's that serious from early reports. It's not the knee.”

The news is certainly encouraging as Demko has already missed a significant chunk of this season recovering from a knee injury. Moreover, Tocchet’s comments point toward the injury occurring at some point during the game and not in warmups as initially believed.

In the meantime, backup Kevin Lankinen filled in admirably for the injured Demko. With the game 2-1 in the dying seconds of the game, Lankinen made a highlight-reel save on the Maple Leafs captain Auston Matthews to preserve the win. Here’s a look at the tremendous glove save:

The look of disbelief on Matthews’ face said everything. The Leafs were desperately trying to tie the game while pressuring on a 6-on-4 power play. Lankinen’s performance saved the day, allowing the Canucks to take home the two points despite Demko’s injury.

While Canucks fans hope that Thatcher Demko will be ready to go by the time the Canucks hit the ice after the 4 Nations Face-Off break, there is comfort in knowing that Kevin Lankinen is more than capable of holding the fort.