Canucks: Thatcher Demko Misses Practice for Recovery
The demanding early-season schedule appears to be taking its toll on the Vancouver Canucks’ goaltenders. To ease the load on Thatcher Demko, the team has temporarily called up goalie Jiri Patera from AHL Abbotsford under emergency conditions.
Demko’s Absence from Practice
Demko was not present at Friday’s practice in Rogers Arena, a day before the Canucks were set to face the Columbus Blue Jackets. With back-to-back games scheduled for Saturday and Sunday against Colorado, there was some uncertainty about Demko’s availability.
"When Demko and ‘absent-from-practice’ end up in the same sentence, you get concerned."
Coach’s Clarification
Head coach Adam Foote explained that Demko’s absence was precautionary, intended to allow him extra recovery time during a particularly intense stretch of games.
"This was simply a case of a player needing more rest in the middle of a very busy schedule," said Foote after practice.
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Author’s summary: The Canucks give Thatcher Demko rest amid a tough schedule, calling up Jiri Patera as precaution while coach Adam Foote stresses recovery over risk.