Demko progressing faster than expected, return date moved up

According to reports from Canucks practice yesterday, Thatcher Demko is healing and ramping up to full speed quicker than originally expected. Now, Canucks media are speculating Demko could return for game 6.

Demko has yet to begin taking regular practices with the full team, but has been taking shots regularly over the last three days. NHL insider Frank Seravalli even hinted towards Demko being a possibility for tonight's game 5 if the goaltender feels comfortable enough to play. Not only that though, but the Canucks would have to move off their rookie goaltender Arturs Silovs, who's played exceptionally well.

Although Silovs has been solid, it feels like as soon as Demko is ready to go, the Canucks will make the switch. Demko has the talent to be a top 5 goaltender in the NHL, and even coming back from injury could be a real X-Factor for the Canucks. Demko's return for mid-way through this series was always going to be a catalyst for this playoff series. Ideally, the Oilers could've jumped on Silovs more, taking a series lead by the time Demko returns.

The Oilers elite offence should still be able to get through Thatcher Demko when he returns, but goals will likely be much harder to come by. If Demko doesn't play in game 5 tonight, it's imperative the Oilers can grab a series lead, and try to eliminate the Canucks at home in Game 6.