The Vancouver Canucks were hit with difficult news this off-season when forward Dakota Joshua was diagnosed with testicular cancer. Joshua, who required surgery to remove a tumour, remains determined to return to the ice. The 27-year-old expressed his resolve in a statement on Tuesday, saying, “the last several weeks have been extremely challenging. I plan on returning to play as soon as possible.”
Joshua’s diagnosis and surgery come after a standout season with the Canucks, where he achieved career highs in goals (18), assists (14), and points (32) in just 63 games. Known for his gritty, physical style of play, he also ranked ninth overall in the NHL for hits, delivering 244, and was a crucial defensive forward, blocking 40 shots, which ranked fourth among Canucks forwards.
Joshua’s presence on the ice last season was crucial to Vancouver’s success, and his teammates have rallied around him during this challenging time. One of his closest friends on the team, forward Conor Garland, shared insight into their friendship and Joshua’s resilience. Garland spoke about their bond, which grew stronger last season as they frequently shared meals and sat next to each other on team charter flights.
“We’re in touch quite a bit. Obviously, he’s one of my best friends off the ice,” Garland said. “We talked a lot this summer. He’s gonna get through it. Right now, it’s not about hockey; it’s just about being there for each other and enjoying each other’s company. Everyone on the team loves him and supports him.”
Joshua’s journey to this point has been shaped by his tough, hard-nosed playing style, which fits well with the blue-collar mentality he grew up with in Detroit. Garland, who grew up 45 minutes from Boston, also shares a deep appreciation for the gritty work ethic they both bring to the game. Their friendship off the ice is a testament to the camaraderie that often fuels team success.
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