Canucks Insider Leaks Thatcher Demko's Likely Salary in Massive Deal

Vancouver Canucks fans may not have to wait long before Thatcher Demko makes a long-term commitment to the team. Although the 29-year-old netminder has a year left on his deal, he's able to ink an extension on July 1.

Although it's not uncommon for negotiations to stretch well into the off-season, Canucks insider Rick Dhaliwal thinks a deal can be done relatively quickly.

Dhaliwal stated he "wouldn't be surprised" if Demko agrees to a 4-to-6-year deal with an annual salary of no less than $7 million, or even higher.

It's difficult to speculate what Demko will be worth. His 2024-25 season was injury-plagued, and he played only 23 games with a 2.90 goals-against average and a .889 save percentage.

Injury has been a regular visitor to his career, as he has played over 40 games just twice in his career.

Still, the season before last showcased his elite potential. He posted a 2.45 GAA and a .918 SV% in 51 games in 2023-24, earning his first Vezina Trophy nomination.

AFP Analytics projects a five-year deal for $34.7 million ($6.9M AAV), which would be a gamble due to his injury record, but could be a bargain if he can stay healthy. All signs appear to indicate it is going to be slightly higher than that amount.

Adding a twist to the situation is Kevin Lankinen, who stepped up in Demko's absence and inked a five-year, $22.5 million extension.

If Demko is re-signed, the Canucks will have a significant portion of their cap space committed to goaltending for years down the road.