Articles / How should the Canucks split up Thatcher Demko and Kevin Lankinen’s starts?

How should the Canucks split up Thatcher Demko and Kevin Lankinen’s starts?

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Canucks Army
Sep 3, 2025 1:00 PM

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The Vancouver Canucks are at a crossroads with their goaltending strategy as they ponder how best to utilize both Thatcher Demko and Kevin Lankinen in the upcoming season. With Demko being the team's primary goaltender, his performance has been a decisive factor in the Canucks' success. However, the recent emergence of Lankinen, who previously showed potential in his stint with the Chicago Blackhawks, presents an interesting dilemma for the coaching staff.

Coaches often face the challenge of balancing a workhorse goalie like Demko, whose workload has been heavy in recent seasons, with the need to give Lankinen valuable playing time. The Canucks want to ensure that Demko remains fresh for critical games while also allowing Lankinen to grow into a reliable backup. The debate in the locker room revolves around the ideal split for games, and both goalies have their supporters within the fanbase.

If Demko can continue his excellent form while sharing some of the load with Lankinen, the Canucks could improve their overall performance. The pressure will be on both players to remain consistent, but their respective strengths could complement each other well. Lankinen's agility and quick reflexes could help in high-pressure situations, while Demko's experience and leadership will be crucial for the team's aspirations this season.

Ultimately, how the Canucks navigate this goaltending decision may very well define their campaign. Both Demko and Lankinen have something to prove, and fans are eager to see how the team's strategy unfolds. The synergy between the two netminders could be the key to a successful season for Vancouver, making every game an experiment in maximizing their potential.