Joshua absorbed a second-period hit against the Predators on Friday and it affected his mobility. He’s now on injured reserve.
Joshua missed the second half of the second period after taking an awkward hit in the leg from Predators forward Roman Josi but returned in the third period.
Highly-touted prospect winger Jonathan Lekkerimaki, 20, has been recalled from the AHL affiliate in Abbotsford in advance of the Canucks opening a tough five-game road trip Monday in Montreal. The 15th overall selection in the 2022 NHL Draft has one goal in five games with the Canucks this season and 17 points (12-5) in 21 AHL games.
Joshua, 28, underwent testicular-cancer surgery in September and was sidelined 14 games. He was starting to get his game in order of late. There was a stronger stride, more ferocious forechecking, better puck management and a more direct route to the net.
However, it amounted to just four points (2-2) in 22 games, and none in his last eight. It’s a far cry from Joshua’s tour of force last season.
Joshua added eight points (4-4) in 13 playoff games and was third overall with 74 hits to earn a four-year extension that carries a US$3.25 million annual cap hit.
(MORE TO COME)