Canucks Notebook: Arturs Silovs ready for re-set when he sees more NHL net

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The trademark Arturs Silovs grin was missing Monday at Rogers Arena.

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It was replaced by more studious and serious post-practice responses to “re-set” questions as the Vancouver Canucks goaltender works to get his game back in order.

It requires enduring physical and mental preparation, and not losing his way in the process.

“You grind through,” said the 23-year-old Silovs. “You practise every single day and do your best and just wait for your chance.”

That could come Tuesday against the Calgary Flames, who will be playing their second game in two nights. And with Canucks veteran stopper Kevin Lankinen in need of a breather after four-straight starts, and eight of the last nine games, it’s not a stretch to suggest that Silovs should see the net.

The lanky Latvian hasn’t had an NHL start since Oct. 30 against the New Jersey Devils when he allowed six goals on 22 shots at Rogers Arena. His numbers this season are numbing with an 0-2-1 record, bloated 4.77 goals-against average and paltry .808 saves percentage.

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Silovs did mop up Saturday and logged the final 8:55 Saturday after Lankinen looked tremendous and then tired by allowing seven goals in a 7-3 spanking by the Edmonton Oilers.

Silovs then went one better on Sunday in Abbotsford to take advantage of a one day AHL reassignment to record 23 saves in a 4-2 victory over the Bakersfield Condors.

“It was great to get some game action,” said Silovs. “I mean, it’s great to win, especially at that moment. I haven’t played in awhile so it boosted my confidence. It was fine. Things change fast here and you have to be ready for the opportunity.

“I’m just getting prepared for the next one (start). Games like that (AHL) are chaotic and you have to battle. Technique is one thing, but there are unexpected rebounds and turnovers and it makes your awareness better. You get sharper.”

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Canucks head coach Rick Tocchet didn’t name his starter on Monday, but lauded the dedication of Silovs to get to Abbotsford and get the job done.

“He had a good effort down there and needed to play,” said Tocchet.

Amid considerable and constant drama in the crease — Thatcher Demko continuing to ramp up his practices in recovery from a knee injury, the proven Lankinen signed to a one-year deal, Jiri Patera claimed off waivers by the Boston Bruins and then reclaimed by the Canucks — it’s Silovs who has had to go about his business.

After all, Tocchet knew he had two cards to play at outset of this season. Go with Silovs in the season opener against the Flames on Oct. 9 or give Lankinen the net. Silovs allowed six goals on 22 shots in a 6-5 overtime loss that night.

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Before the result, Tocchet set the table for what we have seen in the crease.

“Arty deserves it (start) but saying that, Lankinen has impressed and we’re not scared to go to him, too. Who knows what happens.”

It’s why Tuesday could be redemption night if Silovs gets the call. He arrived in the NHL in impressive fashion and wants nothing more than to prove his long-term worth.

He backstopped his native Latvia to a bronze medal in the 2023 world hockey championship on home ice and was named most valuable player with a 7-2-0 record, 2.20 GAA and .930 saves percentage.

And in replacing the injured Demko, his shutout performance to clinch a first-round playoff series against the Nashville Predators in May announced his arrival on the biggest stage.

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Joshua practises, won’t play

Dakota Joshua skated on the fourth line Monday with Aatu Raty and Nils Hoglander, but isn’t expected to face the Flames.

He told Postmedia on Sunday that his recovery from off-season testicular cancer surgery is a slow and steady process. He doesn’t want to tip-toe back into playing a prominent role, although it will take time for him to handle game conditions.

“I’m still not sure,” said Joshua. “I just want to feel at my best and make sure I can go in there in a good spot to help us win. Not hurt the cause, but help the cause. Obviously, there’s going to be a little catching up to do.

“I just want to make sure I’m as close to 100 (per cent) to do what I do best.”

Tocchet acknowledged that Joshua looked good in practice Monday, but a return is ultimately up to the player.

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“You look for a target date and maybe Thursday (New York Islanders) is good time, but we’ll see how he is tomorrow (Tuesday),” said Tocchet. “There’s a good shot for Thursday.”

Tocchet doesn’t like going with 11 forwards and seven defenceman, so a recall of winger Arshdeep Bains may be the way to flesh out the fourth line Tuesday.

bkuzma@postmedia.com

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