Here we go again.

When speaking to the media following the team’s 5-0 loss to the Toronto Maple Leafs, Vancouver Canucks head coach Adam Foote revealed that Thatcher Demko had been removed from the game after the first period due to a lower-body injury. While Foote didn’t reveal any details about how Demko was hurt, he noted that the former Vezina finalist will be re-evaluated over the next few days.

Demko had given up three goals on six shots in the first period of Saturday night’s loss to the Leafs, marking the sixth consecutive appearance where he had given up at least three goals in a game. Kevin Lankinen finished the game, allowing two goals on 18 shots.

While there’s no definitive timeline for Demko’s return, his status for the remainder of Vancouver’s Eastern Conference swing remains in question. The Canucks are tasked with facing the Montreal Canadiens and Ottawa Senators on Monday and Tuesday, before finishing their six-game road trip next Thursday in a clash with the Columbus Blue Jackets.

Another ailment means more absence from Demko. He’s already been on the shelf for 14 games this season due to various injuries, including a lower-body injury that led to him being placed on injured reserve back in November. This comes after an injury-riddled 2024-25 campaign, where the San Diego, Calif. native missed 44 games.

The number of injuries Demko has suffered over his career has really derailed any momentum he ever creates. Once considered the next big goaltending star in the NHL, the former Boston College star hasn’t been able to meet expectations, outside of an impressive 2023-24 season, where he helped the Canucks capture the Pacific Division title.

This season, Demko is 8-10-1 in 20 starts, posting a 2.90 goals-against average and a .895 SV% with one shutout.

The Canucks (16-23-5) remain tied with the Winnipeg Jets for the worst record in the NHL.