Canucks Add Goalie Depth by Claiming Merilainen
Vancouver claimed goaltender Leevi Merilainen off waivers from Ottawa, the first successful claim of this preseason's waiver wire. The move adds depth behind an injured Thatcher Demko, leaving Kevin Lankinen and Nikita Tolopilo to carry the crease. Merilainen posted an 8-10-1 record and an .860 save percentage in 20 games with the Senators last season.
Vancouver’s waiver pickup gives the club another option while Thatcher Demko remains sidelined without a return date. Kevin Lankinen and Nikita Tolopilo had been handling the net, so Merilainen’s arrival increases competition and insurance.
Merilainen, a 2020 third-round pick by Ottawa (71st overall), has 34 NHL appearances since 2022-23 and 84 AHL games with Belleville, where he went 39-29-10. He signed a one-year, $1.1 million deal and had been set for arbitration-eligible RFA status next July. His most recent numbers slipped to 8-10-1 and .860 in 20 games after 8-3-1 and .925 the prior year.
The claim could mainly affect the hockey community: Vancouver’s roster, its fans, and Merilainen’s career path. If Demko’s absence continues, Merilainen may get chances that influence the Canucks’ early-season results and fan confidence. Ottawa supporters could view the loss as reduced organizational depth, while other teams may reconsider their own waiver strategies. Any broader social impact is likely modest, centered on sports entertainment rather than wider public life.