Dakota Joshua Undergoes Successful Cancer Treatment, Misses Canucks’ Training Camp

The Vancouver Canucks have recently announced that forward Dakota Joshua will be absent for the commencement of their upcoming training camp for the 2024-25 NHL season. Joshua disclosed in a statement shared by the team on social media that he had been diagnosed with testicular cancer during the summer and subsequently underwent surgery to remove the tumour.

The surgery was successful, but Joshua is presently in recovery and will not be ready in time for the start of the training camp. “Unfortunately, I will not be ready for the start of training camp as I continue to heal from surgery,” Joshua stated. He expressed his determination to return to play as soon as possible and is actively working toward rejoining his teammates.

Joshua took the opportunity to emphasize the importance of early medical diagnosis and encouraged others to get regular check-ups for testicular cancer. “As I continue with my recovery, I thank everyone for their support and understanding,” he added.

Currently aged 28, Joshua has quickly become a popular figure among fans following his impressive last season where he scored 18 goals and made 32 points for the Vancouver Canucks. Earlier this year, he re-signed with the team with a four-year contract valued at $3.25 million annually.

The Canucks’ training camp is set to begin on Thursday in Penticton, with their first pre-season game scheduled against the Seattle Kraken on September 24th. The team promised to provide further updates regarding Joshua’s condition as deemed appropriate.