VANCOUVER, The Canucks have secured the future of their star netminder, Thatcher Demko, with a significant three-year extension worth $25.5 million (average annual value of $8.5 million), set to begin in the 2026–27 NHL
Why It’s a Big Deal
- Reliable, Elite-level Play When Healthy: At 29, Demko boasts a career record of 126–89–20, a 2.80 goals-against average, a .910 save percentage, and nine shutouts over 242 game
- Vezina-Caliber Credentials: He was a finalist for the NHL’s top goaltender award following his stellar 2023–24 campaign (35–14–2, 2.45 GAA, .918 SV%)
- Locker Room Leader: GM Patrik Allvin praised Demko as “one of the top goalies in the National Hockey League and a key leader in our locker room”
The Elephant in the Crease: Health & Injuries
While his peak form is undeniable, Demko’s injury history has been a concern:
- Played just 23 games in 2024–25 due to lingering injuries, posting a modest 2.90 GAA and .889 save percentage
- Nearly every season has been marred by lower-body injuries—hips, groin, and knees—leading many analysts to question long-term durability
- Despite injuries, Vancouver’s medical team and leadership believe the investment is worthwhile: “If Demko stays healthy, he’s worth every penny
Strategy Behind the Deal
The extension gives Vancouver strong goaltending depth, pairing Demko with fellow goalie Kevin Lankinen, who signed a five-year, $4.5 million AAV deal in February This duo could be one of the NHL’s most formidable tandems, managing playing time strategically to reduce Demko’s risk of injury .
Reaction from Analysts
- Sportskeeda’s Abhishek Dilta acknowledged Demko as “third‑highest‑paid goaltender in the NHL,” noting that his $8.5 million cap hit ranks him alongside elite
- Georgia Straight gave the extension a “C+”, cautioning that Vancouver may have preferred to promote Lankinen and Silovs rather than commit to Demko’s health risk
- NHL Trade Rumors observed that before signing, the Canucks considered trading Demko to avoid redundancy with Lankinen and developing prospect Arturs Silovs
What’s Next?
- Canucks Strategy: With goaltending depth secured, management can focus on bolstering the forward lines and defense to push for playoff contention in the Pacific Division.
- Risk Mitigation: Demko’s usage will likely be monitored carefully, sharing duties to minimize injury risk while maximizing performance.
