Vancouver Canucks announce the departure of goaltending prospect Nikitai Tolopilo after just 4 NHL appearances
Photo credit: Bob Frid-Imagn Images
The Vancouver Canucks have assigned Nikitai Tolopilo to the Abbotsford Canucks, following the return of Thatcher Demko, the young goaltender was impressive during his time with the big club, and might be an NHL regular sooner than we think.
With Demko returning, it'll go back to him and Kevin Lankinen making up the duo in net for the Canucks going forward.
"When meeting with reporters after practice on Tuesday, Thatcher Demko shared how he's feeling about his return to game action after suffering another injury following a difficult last 20 months. Demko said he's been frustrated and pissed off after getting hurt, especially after having such a great summer on and off the ice preparing for the 2025-26 campaign."-Jaxon
Nikita Tolopilo to return to the AHL upon Thatcher Demko's return.
The Vancouver Canucks posted on X of the move for Tolopilo who has been impressive for the Canucks since being called up in relief for both Demko and Lankinen.
General Manager Patrik Allvin announced today that G Nikita Tolopilo has been assigned to Abbotsford (AHL).
Tolopilo has had a pretty crazy 5 weeks, he joined the Canucks, then had to return home for the birth of his daughter. Then returned back to Vancouver, snapped a four game losing streak for the team, to then get sent back down to the AHL. In four games with the club Tolopilo has recorded a .911 save percentage and a 2.74 goals against average, which is pretty good on a sub .500 team like the Canucks.
While the Canucks have no room to keep Tolopilo, it does beg the question, is he already a better option than Demko in net. He is certainly better than Lankinen who has struggled this season. But the Canucks can maybe use Demko as a trade asset and have Tolopilo as the starter. The Canucks probably aren't ready for that move yet, but the possibility is there.
Previously on Vancouver Hockey Daily
| POLL | ||
DECEMBRE 11 | 1327 ANSWERS Vancouver Canucks announce the departure of goaltending prospect Nikitai Tolopilo after just 4 NHL appearances Should the Vancouver Canucks consider trading Thatcher Demko, and having Nikita Tolopilo as their starter? | ||
| Yes | 1005 | 75.7 % |
| No | 322 | 24.3 % |
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