The Vancouver Canucks are set to start their training camp without star goalie Thatcher Demko, who will miss the beginning of preparations in Penticton, B.C. The reasons for his absence were not disclosed, but he faced a knee injury that had sidelined him during last season.

Additionally, veteran centre Teddy Blueger and defensive prospect Cole McWard will also be absent due to minor lower-body surgeries. Winger Dakota Joshua is recovering from surgery for testicular cancer and won’t be present either.