Thatcher Demko's future in Vancouver seems uncertain following his injury struggles this season. Frank Seravalli noted that the signing of Kevin Lankinen indicates a shift in the Canucks' strategy, suggesting they may view Lankinen as a viable alternative to the injured Demko. While Gregor believes Demko could start the next season with the Canucks, he also warns that if Demko cannot maintain his health, his trade value plummets significantly.

Meanwhile, Jake Evans is drawing interest from multiple teams as the Montreal Canadiens contemplate trades. As contract talks have reportedly stalled, teams like the Los Angeles Kings and Chicago Blackhawks are showing willingness to negotiate, although the Canadiens may be asking for higher compensation than some teams are willing to pay.

The Vancouver Canucks face uncertainty with key players Elias Pettersson, Thatcher Demko, and Brock Boeser as the trade deadline approaches. Pettersson, who expressed a desire to stay in Vancouver, struggled post-J.T. Miller's trade and dealt with an injury during the Four Nations tournament, raising questions about his future. Demko's long-term prospects seem bleak due to his injury history and a one-year remaining on his contract, especially with Kevin Lankinen's recent five-year extension. Meanwhile, Boeser is at an impasse with the Canucks, making it likely he could be traded if negotiations don't progress.

In the broader NHL landscape, trade values are shifting following performances in the Four Nations tournament. Players like Erik Karlsson and Brock Nelson have seen their trade appeal fluctuate, while others, such as Gustav Nyquist, are being evaluated for their recent impact. With teams assessing their roster and future, the upcoming deadline could see significant movement.

The Vancouver Canucks have secured goaltender Kevin Lankinen with a five-year extension worth $4.5 million annually, a strategic move amid uncertainty surrounding Thatcher Demko's future, particularly after his injury concerns during the 2024 playoffs. Lankinen's contributions have kept the Canucks in the playoff hunt this season, but the organization faces critical decisions, especially regarding Demko and star center Elias Pettersson.

With Demko's contract expiring soon, there are discussions about whether Lankinen's signing indicates a shift in the team's goaltending strategy. Analysts speculate that if the Canucks decide to part ways with either Demko or Pettersson, they will need to secure substantial returns to avoid unfavorable trades reminiscent of past deals. The upcoming offseason could prove pivotal as Vancouver re-evaluates its roster and cap space.

Kevin Lankinen has emerged as a pivotal asset for the Vancouver Canucks, providing invaluable support as a backup goalie after being acquired prior to the season. Previously with both the Blackhawks and Predators, Lankinen has a career 2.93 GAA and .905 save percentage. This season, he's posted a 19-9-7 record, showing strong performance under pressure amidst ongoing goaltending issues. His new five-year deal worth an AAV of $4.5 million reflects the Canucks' confidence in his abilities, especially in light of Thatcher Demko's injury concerns.

With Lankinen's stellar play, the Canucks have stabilized their goaltending situation, which was a major concern heading into the season. His recent selection for Finland’s Four Nations Face-off team underscores his impressive form. As they push towards the playoffs, the Canucks look to Lankinen to build on this momentum, assessing whether he could potentially take over as the top goalie for the franchise moving forward.

The Vancouver Canucks made headlines by signing goaltender Kevin Lankinen to a five-year extension worth $4.5 million per season. This decision comes amid uncertainty surrounding Thatcher Demko, who has battled injuries, particularly during the 2024 Stanley Cup Playoffs. Lankinen's contributions have significantly impacted the team's playoff contention in the Western Conference, raising questions about Demko's future in Vancouver.

Speculation around Elias Pettersson's situation intensifies as rumors swirl regarding potential trades. Darren Dreger suggested that the team's management may need to weigh their options this summer, particularly concerning Demko's contract that expires soon. The Canucks are also on a quest for a center, hinting at a possible retooling over the off-season. With Lankinen's new deal, it could signal a shift in the organization’s approach, particularly if they decide to move on from Demko and Pettersson.