Vancouver Canucks Striker Dakota Joshua will be out indefinitely after revealing Tuesday that he was diagnosed with testicular cancer this summer and is currently recovering following successful surgery to remove the tumor.
Joshua, 28, made the announcement in a statement on the team's social media.
Vancouver Canucks forward Dakota Joshua, #81, skates against the Florida Panthers in the third period at Rogers Arena. (Bob Frid-USA TODAY Sports)
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“This summer I felt a lump in one of my testicles that doctors would later diagnose as testicular cancer. “That news was obviously scary to hear, but thankfully the doctors were able to successfully remove the tumor,” her statement read.
“The last few weeks have been extremely difficult and I have been fortunate to have the support of my family, friends, teammates and doctors. Unfortunately, I will not be ready for the start of training camp as I continue to recover from surgery. I plan to return to play as soon as possible this season and am working hard every day to rejoin my teammates.”
Vancouver Canucks forward Dakota Joshua, #81, during a stoppage in play against the Nashville Predators in the first period of game two of the first round of the 2024 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Rogers Arena. (Bob Frid-USA TODAY Sports)
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“Although it was very difficult to face the reality of this specific type of cancer, getting checked by a doctor quickly was the best strategy and I encourage men to get regular check-ups for testicular cancer,” he added.
Joshua is entering his second season with the Canucks, where he had a career-high 18 goals and 14 assists in 63 games. He also had four goals and four assists in the Canucks' playoff run that ended in the second round against the Edmonton Oil.
Calgary Flames goaltender Jacob Markstrom, #25, makes a save on Vancouver Canucks forward Dakota Joshua, #81, in the third period at Rogers Arena. (Bob Frid-USA TODAY Sports)
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After a breakout season, Joshua signed a four-year, $13 million contract extension in June.
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