Thatcher Demko to start for Canucks vs. Blues [Video]

All-star Vancouver Canucks goalie Thatcher Demko will make his first start of the season Tuesday.

Head coach Rick Tocchet confirmed after morning skate that Demko will be in net when the Canucks host the St. Louis Blues.

The 28-year-old netminder from San Diego, Calif., last played on April 24 when the Canucks bested the Nashville Predators in Game 1 of a first-round playoff series.

He suffered an injury to the popliteus muscle in his knee during the game and has been working his way back ever since.

A number of factors led to Demko starting Tuesday, Tocchet said.

“You want him to feel comfortable. You want to, obviously, communicate with him,” he said. “(Kevin Lankinen) was playing well, too. So there wasn’t a pressing issue to get him in. But we want to get him in. We’re excited. Obviously he’s a huge part of our team.”

Demko had a 35-14-2 …