Insider Weighs in on the Canucks’ DeBrusk, Demko & Kane

Between periods of the Vancouver Canucks and Edmonton Oilers game last night, Louis DeBrusk stepped in to be interviewed by Canucks broadcaster Dan Murphy to offered his take on the Canucks. He’s got the background, he’s got the credibility, and—to be honest—he has inside information with his son Jake now a member of the Canucks’ team.

What did Dad Louis DeBrusk have to say about this Canucks group headed into the 2025-26 season?

Jake DeBrusk’s New Look in Vancouver

DeBrusk started with family—his son Jake is entering his second season with the Canucks after scoring 28 goals last year. Louis called it “an interesting year” for both Jake and the organization, with plenty of ups and downs, but he stressed that the group battled hard and built something they can carry forward. What excites him now is the chemistry.

Jake has been skating alongside Elias Pettersson and Brock Boeser in camp, and Louis likes the look of that trio. They’re all in their mid-to-late 20s, experienced enough to understand how to play a full 200-foot game. DeBrusk noted that Adam Foote has kept them together, giving them a chance to gel, and he thinks that mix of responsibility and scoring touch can give the Canucks more flexibility across the top six.

Thatcher Demko’s Health and Confidence

For the elder DeBrusk, the most important storyline isn’t up front but in net. Thatcher Demko looks healthy and happy—two words the Canucks desperately wanted to hear. After years of battling injuries and never playing more than 35 games in four of his last six seasons, Demko enters this year refreshed.

DeBrusk pointed out that a healthy Demko is one of the best goaltenders in the NHL, and his calm presence has already been evident in camp and the preseason. The Canucks also have Kevin Lankinen as a backup option, which should take some of the pressure off Demko. A 1–2 punch in goal allows the coaching staff to manage his workload and keep him sharp for the stretch drive.

Evander Kane’s Return to Vancouver

Another point DeBrusk hit on was Evander Kane’s addition. Kane is back in his hometown and skating with bite and intensity—something Louis has seen from him at every NHL stop. Kane has always scored, and even in preseason, he’s been noticeable with his edge and presence. Coming into the last year of his contract, Kane has plenty of motivation: milestones like 1,000 games, the chance to extend his career, and the pride of playing in Vancouver.

Louis compared the upcoming season to Kane’s San Jose stint, where he took on a bigger veteran role, and he believes Kane can do the same here. The Canucks see him as more than just a scorer—he’s expected to be part of the leadership fabric.