A Journey to Vancouver: Kevin Lankinen’s NHL Odyssey
Kevin Lankinen, the former Chicago Blackhawks goalie, has embarked on a remarkable journey in the National Hockey League (NHL). After making his debut in the 2020-21 season at the age of 25, Lankinen quickly established himself as a reliable starter, showcasing his poise and skill on the ice. His performance in Chicago was solid, and he continued to build on that foundation, playing one more season for the Blackhawks. However, the young goaltender’s story doesn’t end there. In a significant move, Lankinen has now inked a five-year contract with the Vancouver Canucks, valued at an annual average value (AAV) of $4.5 million. This deal not only highlights his recent success but also cements his role as a key player for the Canucks moving forward.
Betting on Himself: A Strong Start in Nashville
Lankinen’s path to Vancouver began with a calculated risk. After his stint with the Blackhawks, he moved to the Nashville Predators, where he served as the backup to Juuse Saros. Despite the limited playing time, Lankinen made the most of his opportunities, posting impressive numbers that turned heads. He believed in himself and his abilities, and his strong performances in Nashville reinforced his conviction that he could handle the role of a starter. This self-belief was crucial, as it propelled him to seize new opportunities and ultimately land a significant contract with the Canucks.
Stepping into the Spotlight: Lankinen’s Impact in Vancouver
When Thatcher Demko, the Canucks’ primary goaltender, suffered injury troubles, the team needed a reliable backup to step up. Enter Kevin Lankinen, who has been nothing short of a revelation for Vancouver. Through 32 starts, Lankinen boasts an impressive 19-8-7 record, a 2.53 goals-against average (GAA), a .905 save percentage (SV%), and four shutouts. These numbers speak volumes about his consistency and ability to perform under pressure. His steady presence in the net has been a major factor in the Canucks’ current playoff position, earning him the respect and admiration of his teammates and fans alike.
Deserved Recognition: The Contract Extension
Given Lankinen’s outstanding play, it’s no surprise that he earned a contract extension. His performance has been so impactful that the Canucks were wise to secure his services for the next five years. The deal, with a $4.5 million AAV, is a fair reflection of his current value and potential. It also addresses the team’s goaltending needs, particularly with Demko’s current contract expiring in one year. Lankinen’s extension suggests that the Canucks see him as a long-term solution between the pipes, a vote of confidence that he has well-deserved.
Future Uncertainties: The Fate of Thatcher Demko
The signing of Lankinen has significant implications for the Canucks’ goaltending future. Thatcher Demko, who has been the team’s primary goaltender, is set to have only one year left on his deal. With Lankinen’s impressive performance and his newfound contract, it’s becoming increasingly clear that Demko may not be part of Vancouver’s plans beyond next season. If Lankinen continues to play at his current level, this could further solidify his position as the future of the Canucks’ goaltending. The team’s decision-making in this area will be closely watched, as goaltending is a critical component of any successful hockey team.
Looking Ahead: The Hockey News Chicago Blackhawks Team Site
As Lankinen embarks on this new chapter with the Canucks, fans and observers can stay updated on his progress and the broader landscape of the NHL by visiting The Hockey News Chicago Blackhawks team site. Whether you’re interested in the latest news, game day coverage, player features, or in-depth analysis, this resource provides comprehensive insights into the team and the league. For Lankinen, this move to Vancouver represents a significant step forward in his career, and his journey continues to inspire others who believe in their own potential.
