Canucks send down goalie, recall forward ahead of upcoming game vs. Kings
The Canucks have sent down goalie Jiri Patera to AHL Abbotsford, and in the process, they have recalled forward Jonathan Lekkerimaki prior to the game vs. the Kings.
The Vancouver Canucks could be inching closer to full health. The team made two roster moves on Saturday, recalling forward Jonathan Lekkerimiaki from Abbotsford (AHL) while sending their backup goalie Jiri Patera down.
"G Jiri Patera has been assigned to Abbotsford (AHL) and F Jonathan Lekkerimäki has been recalled from Abbotsford (AHL)."
- Vancouver Canucks
- Vancouver Canucks
What these roster moves mean for goaltender Kevin Lankinen
This leaves Vancouver with just one active netminder, opening the door for Kevin Lankinen's return.
Lankinen, 30, has been out since Wednesday due to personal reasons. In 13 games this season (12 starts), he has posted a 3.64 goals-against average and a .880 save percentage.
Why Jiri Patera likely got sent down
Patera appeared in only one game for Vancouver, giving up seven goals in a loss earlier this month. Even if Lankinen was not healthy, Patera's numbers do not exude confidence in management, which could be why he was demoted today.
Lekkerimaki, 21, has not skated with the Canucks since being placed on injured reserve in October.
He was activated in November but spent a brief stint in the AHL before returning to the NHL roster. So far, he has one goal in four games with Vancouver.
The Canucks are back in action Saturday on Hockey Night in Canada, visiting the Los Angeles Kings. Puck drop is scheduled for 10 p.m. ET / 7 p.m. PT.
| POLL | ||
NOVEMBRE 29 | 95 ANSWERS Canucks send down goalie, recall forward ahead of upcoming game vs. Kings Who will win tonight's game? | ||
| Canucks | 37 | 38.9 % |
| Kings | 58 | 61.1 % |
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