The preparation work for the new season of the Vancouver Canucks has encountered significant challenges, with core goalkeeper Rachel Demko absent from the first day of training camp on Thursday due to a lower body injury that has not yet recovered, casting a shadow over whether he can return to the field in time.
I really can’t give a clear answer right now about whether I’m ready for the new season, “Demko admitted.” A month ago, I might have been even more confused. But now, we’re on a positive recovery track, and this is the most confident I’ve ever been about the recovery process
Despite not fully recovering, Demko persisted in solo skating training in Penticton, British Columbia, and gave his first media interview detailing his rehabilitation progress. He conducted targeted training on ice with the newly appointed goalkeeper coach Marco Torenius, including ice skating exercises in the goalkeeper area, shooting strategies, and flexible movements in butterfly skating, in an effort to quickly regain his competitive form.
As the regular season approaches, the first game of the Vancouver Canucks is scheduled for October 9th against the Calgary Flames, which undoubtedly adds a sense of urgency to Demko’s recovery process. He said, “I will continue to work closely with Marco and the medical team, striving to make progress every week. Although I cannot give an exact timetable to avoid unnecessary pressure on myself, I am confident in my future recovery path
It is worth noting that Demko underwent another surgery during the offseason, but he emphasized that the surgery was not related to the current injury and was only intended to address other potential health issues. Regarding the two injuries during last season’s playoffs, Demko appeared both helpless and composed: “The first was a left knee injury, and the second was a muscle problem. As a competitor, I always wanted to give my all in the playoffs, but looking back, I may have been a bit too forced on myself
Demko’s absence is not an isolated case, and the Canucks also face injury issues with other players. General Manager Patrick Alvin announced on Wednesday that forward Teddy Brugge and guard Cole McWard have both undergone “minor lower body surgeries” and are expected to be absent for a period of time. In addition, forward Dakota Joshua is also recovering from testicular cancer surgery, and his return time is still uncertain.
This series of injury issues undoubtedly adds more variables to the Canucks’ new season journey. However, seeking breakthroughs in adversity is precisely the charm of sports competition. For fans, although it is not possible to immediately see a fully healthy team, they can express their unwavering support and commitment to the team by purchasing equipment such as “cheap jerseys,” “cheap nhl jerseys,” or “cheap jerseys from China.
The phrase ‘NHL jerseys cheap’ not only represents affordability, but also represents the deep emotional attachment of fans to the team. Before this challenging new season begins, let us all look forward to the speedy recovery of Demko and other injured players, leading the Canucks to once again strive for glory.