Canucks Call Up Jiri Patera: Is Thatcher Demko Injured?
The Vancouver Canucks have called up goaltender Jiri Patera from the Abbotsford Canucks under emergency conditions. This move, announced on Friday morning, caused immediate concern among fans.
Reports from ChekTV's Rick Dhaliwal and RinkWide's Irfan Gaffar clarify that goaltender Lankinen is not injured, and this recall relates to taking care of Thatcher Demko's condition. Head coach Adam Foote explained the situation as planned rest for Demko during a congested schedule.
"We asked him this summer — we had a conversation with him — to take care of himself, and know in a condensed schedule when he feels he needs a little bit of time off." – Adam Foote
This approach involves Demko managing his body proactively, similar to preventative maintenance. However, emergency recalls typically occur under different circumstances. While players may skip practices for rest or minor injury recovery, such absences usually don't justify an emergency recall.
Throughout the season, players often deal with various bumps, bruises, and strains that do not remove them from competition. But emergency recalls have specific criteria, and resting for maintenance purposes alone doesn't usually meet those requirements.
Understanding Emergency Recalls
- Emergency recalls are triggered by conditions preventing regular player participation.
- “Maintenance” rest usually means minor issues manageable without missing games.
- Demko’s current situation is about body management rather than injury.
Overall, the Canucks' recall of Patera serves as a precaution during a demanding part of the season rather than an indication of serious injury.
Author’s summary: The Canucks’ emergency recall of Jiri Patera is a preventive measure for Thatcher Demko’s workload management rather than due to injury.