Canucks call up Jiri Patera. Is Thatcher Demko injured?

Canucks Call Up Jiri Patera: Is Thatcher Demko Injured?

The Vancouver Canucks have called up goaltender Jiri Patera from the Abbotsford Canucks under emergency conditions. This move has raised questions among fans about the health of starting goaltender Thatcher Demko.

Emergency Recall Explained

The recall was made on Friday morning, prompting immediate speculation. However, reports from ChekTV's Rick Dhaliwal and RinkWide's Irfan Gaffar indicate that backup goaltender Lankinen is not injured. The situation appears to be related to Demko's workload and recovery.

Coach’s Statement

"We asked him this summer — we had a conversation with him — to take care of himself, and know in a condensed schedule when he feels he needs a little bit of time off."

Head coach Adam Foote emphasized that the recall is part of a planned approach to managing Demko's body. He described it as preventative maintenance rather than a response to injury.

Context on Maintenance and Emergency Recalls

It's common for players to skip practices for "maintenance," which usually means minor issues that don't affect game participation. However, emergency recalls are subject to specific league rules, and "maintenance" alone does not typically qualify as a valid reason for such a move.

Summary

The Canucks' decision to recall Patera is officially framed as a precautionary measure for Demko, but the use of an emergency recall suggests the situation may be more complex than standard maintenance.

Emergency recalls are usually reserved for more urgent circumstances, not routine rest or minor recovery.

Author's summary: The Canucks' emergency recall of Jiri Patera signals a cautious approach to Thatcher Demko's workload, but the move raises questions about the true nature of his condition.

Richmond News — 2025-11-08