The Vancouver Canucks could soon be adding some impact players back onto their roster.
J.T. Miller and Thatcher Demko are nearly back to full health and management is waiting for that to happen before making any rash decisions per reports today.
Multiple NHL insiders gave an update on Miller’s status today and it sounds like he’s nearly ready to play. The star centre hasn’t skated with the team since going on personal leave on November 19.
“With Miller I’m hearing one-to-two practices before he gets back,” said CHEK’s Rick Dhaliwal on Donnie & Dhali today. “Could he be in later on in the week? Who knows.”
“We’re getting closer to his return,” said Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman on 32 Thoughts today. He continued on to shut down any trade rumours surrounding the centre, reinforcing comments made by Jim Rutherford last week.
The Canucks are scheduled to practice on Wednesday and Friday this week, and further reports suggest Miller will likely participate.
“They are targeting Wednesday where he will practice, that’s the expectation,” said TSN’s Darren Dreger on Sekeres & Price today.
The Canucks are letting Miller dictate his return, and while things could change, all signs point to him rejoining the club sometime this week.
The 31-year-old has 16 points in 17 games so far this season.
Demko nearly ready to start
While Miller’s return will be a huge addition to the club, it’s not the only noteworthy one, as Demko is expected to make his first start in more than seven months.
The All-Star goalie has dressed the past two games as the backup and has been participating fully in practice for a few weeks now. The team sent down Arturs Silovs over the weekend, meaning it’s just Demko and Kevin Lankinen on the roster.
Demko could get his first start as soon as tomorrow night when the St. Louis Blues visit town. He and Miller returning, along with defenceman Derek Forbort, who has been practicing in a non-contact jersey, will help beef up the Canucks lineup.
The Canucks have struggled with injuries this season, but there is light at the end of the tunnel for getting most of their players back. Management is waiting for that to happen before exploring any trades.
“I think they want to see their team with everybody back,” continued Friedman. “I think they’re very hopeful that the worst is over.”
“They want to get healthy, see what the team looks like, and then make a decision,” explained Dhaliwal.
The Canucks have not had a game with all of their stars healthy yet this season. While Filip Hronek’s injury means that date won’t be coming soon, the return of Demko and Miller should give a clearer picture of this group’s full potential.