Lankinen's Rise Could Force a Goaltender Out of Vancouver
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Kevin Lankinen has emerged as a legit goaltender for the Vancouver Canucks, putting the team in an awkward situation with regards to their goalie depth.
NHL.com writer Kevin Woodley was on the Donnie and Dhali show today to discuss the team's goaltending situation.
He admitted that the Canucks are in a bit of a predicament. With how well Kevin Lankinen has played this year, he arguably has already earned a contract extension.
That would mean though, that the team would have to figure out a solution for Arturs Silovs, who will not remain waiver exempt for much longer.
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"If it happens (the Canucks re-sign Lankinen), as soon as Silovs requires waivers it becomes a bit of a decision. If rebuilds his game, his confidence, and his statistics in the American League this season, that becomes a risk. Losing an asset for nothing when you put him on waivers next season. That's your focus in the short term."
Silovs has appeared in 7 games for the Canucks this season. He has a 1-4-1 record along with a miserable 4.11 goals-against-average and an ugly .847 save percentage.
Lankinen meanwhile has shouldered the starter's workload in Thatcher Demko's absence, putting up a 14-4-2 record across 21 games.
His underlying numbers are much better as well as he has 2.52 goals-against-average and a .912 save percentage.
He also is in a toe for the league lead in shutouts with three.
Demko meanwhile, has only just returned to the team and has started just one game, an overtime loss against the St. Louis Blues where he gave up 4 goals on 25 shots.
He will be getting the start in goal tonight though against the Boston Bruins, giving him another chance to earn his first victory of the season.
Assuming Demko can remain healthy, Silovs' future in Vancouver is uncertain at best, especially if Lankinen continues to impress.
Be sure to follow the team for the remainder of the season so see how this situation plays out.
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