The Vancouver Canucks have two strong options in net this season.
With the holiday break now here, the Vancouver Canucks have a few days to think about how they want to deploy their goaltenders for the rest of the season. While there are a couple of options, two of the more likely choices are win and stay in or a scheduled rotation. Here is a look at both options and how they could impact both Kevin Lankinen and Thatcher Demko.
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Vancouver has had their top two goaltenders available for the past ten games. While Lankinen did miss a few games with an illness, both have played five of the ten, with each winning two games. Below is a look at how the two have performed since Demko returned to the lineup earlier this month against the Columbus Blue Jackets.
Both goaltenders have played well over the last ten games. While Lankinen has better statistics, Demko has stepped up on multiple occasions and, at times, looks like his Veznia-calibre self. Both goaltenders also have wins over recent Stanley Cup Champions as Lankinen shut out the Florida Panthers, while Demko stopped 30 of 31 shots against the Colorado Avalanche. At this point, it is clear that the Canucks have a 1A/1B situation in the crease and need to be careful in order to keep both playing at a high level.
Starting with the win and stay in option this is great motivation for both goaltenders. If either Lankinen or Demko can get on a winning streak, it means more playing time for that goaltender. That being said, while winning is the ultimate goal, it has the potential of keeping one of Vancouver's goaltenders on the bench for an extended period of time, which could impact how fresh both goalies are.
As for the scheduled rotation, this keeps both goaltenders engaged as they know their next start is around the corner. The team could even schedule mini three or four-game runs for each, allowing for both Lankinen and Demko to stay fresh at all times. While this seems like an ideal option, it could create some confusion for the skaters as they would constantly be adjusting how they play to match each goaltender's style of play.
With over half the season to play, the Canucks are in a great position when it comes to goaltending. Both Lankinen and Demko look ready to lead the team, with internal competition forcing both goaltenders to be at their best night after night. In the end, it is a great problem for Rick Tocchet and goaltending coach Marko Torenius, as it will help ensure Vancouver will get high-end goaltending for the rest of the season.
