Arturs Silovs Set for Opening Night as Canucks’ Goaltender Amid Team Adjustments

VANCOUVER, BC – The Vancouver Canucks have named Arturs Silovs as their starting goaltender for the regular-season opener against the Calgary Flames at Rogers Arena on Wednesday. This announcement comes amidst a series of changes and challenges in the team’s goaltending lineup.

Silovs, 23, who has transitioned from a promising prospect to a reliable NHL starter, remains composed and positive about the upcoming challenge. Speaking to Postmedia, he emphasized the importance of staying calm and waiting for the right moment to showcase one’s skills. “Let the game come to you,” he stated. “You don’t really have to be stressed out about it. Wait for the moment that you have worked for to see the puck and make the save.”

The Canucks have been navigating a period of uncertainty with their goaltenders. Thatcher Demko is currently rehabitating from a knee muscle injury, and experienced backup Kevin Lankinen recently signed a one-year deal with the team. Additionally, Jiri Patera was briefly claimed off waivers by the Boston Bruins before returning to the Canucks’ roster.

Head coach Rick Tocchet expressed confidence in Silovs, highlighting the Latvian goaltender’s readiness and resilience. “I don’t want to say Arty is my guy, but I know him well and he’s done a great job in pressure situations,” Tocchet commented after a practice session at UBC. Tocchet also acknowledged Lankinen’s abilities, stating that the team is not afraid to rely on him if needed.

Lankinen, 29, who previously served as a capable backup to Juuse Saros in Nashville, offers strong puck handling skills and puck tracking, which are areas where Silovs is looking to improve. Tocchet noted that both goaltenders offer valuable strengths in different areas.

Silovs, standing 6-foot-4, has been focused on honing his skills and proving himself as a dependable option for any game situation. Last season, he played a key role in leading Latvia to a bronze medal in the 2023 World Hockey Championship, earning most valuable player honors with impressive statistics. His accomplishments also included a standout performance in the Stanley Cup playoffs, emphasizing his potential as one of the NHL’s promising young goaltenders.

With Patera placed on waivers for reassignment to the AHL and Ty Young potentially moving to the ECHL, the Canucks are making strategic adjustments to their goaltending depth. As the team prepares for the season opener, Tocchet has a versatile roster at his disposal, ready to adapt to any upcoming challenges.