Canucks fans panic after Thatcher Demko injury
The Vancouver Canucks have been dealt a devastating blow early in the Stanley Cup Playoffs, as starting goaltender Thatcher Demko sustained a serious injury that will sideline him for the remainder of the postseason. This news comes at a critical time, just after the Canucks lost their playoff opener, severely dimming their hopes of a deep playoff run.
NHL insider Sarah Civian reported the grim prognosis for Demko, confirming that he will not return to the ice until at least June. This follows a prior hint from sports journalist Elliotte Friedman, who first aired concerns about the severity of Demko's condition.
The Canucks, now forced to proceed without their star netminder, face an uphill battle in their first-round series against the Nashville Predators and beyond. Backup goalie Casey DeSmith will step into the spotlight, tasked with leading the team through what promises to be a challenging playoff journey.
Fan reaction has been a mixture of shock and dismay, with many expressing their concerns over the team's prospects without Demko guarding the net. The social media response from Canucks fans has been palpable, showcasing a community grappling with the unexpected turn of events. Tweets expressing these sentiments reveal the depth of the fanbase's unease, visible through posts from concerned supporters here, here, and here.
Throughout the regular season, Demko was a linchpin for the Canucks, boasting an impressive .918 save percentage across 51 games and contributing significantly to the team's strong performance under new head coach Rick Tocchet. His prowess between the pipes led to a commendable 35-14-2 record, highlighting his critical role in the team's success. His absence leaves a void that will not easily be filled, and the Canucks must now find a way to rally and compete without one of their most crucial players. The challenge ahead is daunting, and the next few games will be telling of the team's resilience and depth.
| POLL | ||
Is it possible for the Canucks to beat Nashville despite Demko's injury? | ||
| Yes, Canucks can still win | 97 | 48.7 % |
| It will be close | 67 | 33.7 % |
| No, Canucks can't win without Demko | 28 | 14.1 % |
| See Results | 7 | 3.5 % |
| List of polls | ||
