‘If it helps one person’: Dakota Joshua on disclosing his cancer diagnosis

Joshua established himself as a key part of the Canucks’ third line and penalty kill last season. He is a reliable teammate who functions well within the Canucks’ system. Head Coach Rick Tocchet emphasizes how important the 6-foot-4 forward is to the team.

“You know how I feel about body positioning and wall work, he’s good at that, and I think he can give a boost to our team with that, with winning battles, his presence in front of the net – he’s a tough guy to be with to play. play against — so anytime you add a guy like that to the lineup, it’s contagious,” Tocchet said.

Tocchet said Joshua grew as a leader last season and became a trusted voice in the locker room. Joshua has been with the team for every game and road trip and continues to bring levity to the group and build chemistry with his teammates.

“It’s a lot of fun and we have a great job, so it’s a privilege to just be a part of it and get up for it every day. That’s the best part – being around the boys – and having those moments of connection,” Joshua said.

As a competitor, it is in Joshua’s DNA to want to get into the mix and help his teammates every game, but he is patient and will return when he can hit full speed ahead.

“It’s about jumping in when I can, not just seeing if I can get through the game,” he said. “I want to go out there and make things happen, have an impact and help teams win games,” Joshua said.

He will continue to travel and practice with the team and take things day by day until he is ready to get back to work.