Canucks Conversation Nov. 7: Canucks prepare for back to backs with Demko questionable ft. Irfaan Gaffar (ep. 903)
Nov 7, 2025
Irfaan Gaffar, a Vancouver Rinkwide reporter, shares valuable insights on Thatcher Demko's recent absence from practice and the implications of his potential return. The discussion heats up around Demko’s workload management and the emergency recall of goalie Yuri Patera. Gaffar also evaluates the Canucks' recent performance, the team’s trade strategy as deadlines loom, and the pressure on management from ownership. Expect a lively chat about player dynamics, with focus on Quinn Hughes’ current form and the upcoming tough matches against Columbus and Colorado.
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Demko's Absence Framed As Maintenance
- Thatcher Demko sat out practice as part of planned workload management rather than a disclosed major injury.
- Adam Foote framed it as precautionary maintenance within a condensed schedule to preserve Demko long-term.
Schedule Goalies Around Condensed Runs
- Plan goalie starts around the condensed schedule and use targeted rest days to avoid burnout or injury.
- Consider backup availability and emergency recall rules before skipping starts to ensure roster compliance.
Emergency Recall Has Clear CBA Thresholds
- The CBA's emergency recall rules require an incapacitating injury or being below two healthy goalies.
- Teams can't casually use emergency recalls to justify routine load management without meeting the threshold.