Thatcher Demko Unfazed by Kevin Lankinen’s New Contract, Focused on Return
Vancouver Canucks starting goaltender Thatcher Demko isn’t overanalyzing Kevin Lankinen’s recent contract extension. In an interview with Sportsnet’s Ian MacIntyre, Demko addressed the Canucks’ decision to sign Lankinen to a three-year, $22.5 million deal and how it might affect his own future in Vancouver.
“I think Kevin deserved every penny of that contract for what he’s done this year,” Demko said. “He’s carried the mail for us and shown great leadership. I don’t think it has anything to do with me, but I’m happy for Kevin.”
Demko, 29, has endured a challenging season, starting just 17 games due to multiple injuries. He began the year on injured reserve after offseason knee surgery and has since dealt with two additional setbacks. Meanwhile, Lankinen has stepped up in Demko’s absence, making 44 starts this season and posting a .901 save percentage in 46 appearances, including four shutouts and 24 wins—his best NHL campaign to date.
No Hard Feelings Over Lankinen’s Deal
Despite Lankinen’s impressive performances earning him a long-term extension, Demko insists he harbors no resentment.
“I didn’t take offense to it or anything like that,” Demko said. “I think the team has every right to reward a guy like that.”
Demko, who remains committed to the Canucks, added:
“Kevin’s a great guy and a great teammate. I’ve always loved being a Canuck, and this doesn’t change anything for me.”
Return to Action on the Horizon
Demko is nearing a return to action and could be back in the lineup as soon as Monday night against the New Jersey Devils. He participated in what was described as his closest to a full practice with the team on Sunday, prompting head coach Rick Tocchet to suggest that Demko’s return is imminent.
“That’s probably as close to a full practice as he’s had so far,” Tocchet said. “He’s starting to feel pretty good, so we’ll see what happens.”
Demko, eager to get back between the pipes, added:
“I feel good. It’s that time of year where practices are hard to come by, so I’m just trying to get my reps in whenever I can.”
So far this season, Demko has won six of his 17 starts, recording a 2.87 goals-against average and a .891 save percentage. With Lankinen battling illness during Vancouver’s 5–3 loss to the New York Rangers on Saturday, Demko’s return could come at a crucial time for the Canucks.
