In a strategic move, the Canucks have shuffled their goaltending lineup, sending Aku Koskenvuo to AHL Abbotsford and bringing up Nikita Tolopilo. This decision comes as they continue to navigate their goaltending depth, with Kevin Lankinen still re-integrating after his stint with Finland at the Winter Olympics.
Koskenvuo, at 22, is wrapping up his initial professional season. Drafted in the fifth round back in 2021, he honed his skills at Harvard before joining Vancouver on an entry-level contract last March.
This season has seen him split time between Abbotsford and ECHL Kalamazoo, thanks in part to the ripple effects of Thatcher Demko's season-ending hip surgery. While his stats-3.20 GAA, .895 SV%, and a 2-5-0 record in Abbotsford-haven't been standout, he's been gaining valuable experience.
Meanwhile, Tolopilo, 25, is in a tight race with Jiří Patera for the third goalie spot behind Demko and Lankinen. Despite trailing Patera in AHL performance, Tolopilo has shone during his NHL opportunities this season.
In nine appearances, he boasts a 3-3-1 record with a .910 SV% and 3.04 GAA, impressive numbers given Vancouver's defensive struggles. His 3.5 goals saved above expected, as noted by MoneyPuck, highlight his potential impact.
At 6’6”, Tolopilo could quickly rise in the ranks, providing crucial support to Lankinen as the season progresses.