Vancouver Canucks team (Photo by Derek Cain/Getty Images)
Vancouver Canucks forward Dakota Joshua will be out for some time after he revealed Tuesday that he was diagnosed with testicular cancer this summer.

The good news is that he is currently in recovery following a successful surgery to remove the tumor.

Dakota Joshua shared a statement through the Canucks’ social media accounts, confirming he won’t be ready for training camp this week in Penticton.

“This summer, I felt a lump on one of my testicles that doctors would later diagnose as testicular cancer. This news was obviously scary to hear, but thankfully, doctors were able to successfully remove the tumor. The last several weeks have been extremely challenging, and I’ve 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 heal from surgery. I plan on returning to play as soon as possible this season, and I am working hard every day to rejoin my teammates.

“Although it was very difficult to face the reality of this specific type of cancer, getting checked by a doctor quickly was the best approach, and I encourage men to get checked regularly for testicular cancer. As I continue with my recovery, I thank everyone in advance for respecting my privacy concerning this matter. The team will provide updates as appropriate.

In the meantime, I thank everyone for their support and understanding.”

The 28-year-old forward for the Vancouver Canucks is entering his second season with the team, where he had a career-high 18 goals and 14 assists in 63 games.

He added four goals and four assists to the team’s playoff run before they were eliminated in the second round against the Edmonton Oilers.

Vancouver Canucks Forward Dakota Joshua Signs New Deal

Vancouver Canucks forward Dakota Joshua is going through a tough time in his life after he announced he was diagnosed with testicular cancer this summer and underwent surgery to remove a tumor.

He broke into the NHL in the 2020-21 season with the St. Louis Blues and played parts of two seasons with the Blues before signing with Vancouver as a free agent and earning a larger role there.

In 63 games last season, Joshua collected 18 goals and 14 assists for 32 points, all career highs.

As a result of his good play, the Vancouver Canucks signed Dakota Joshua to a four-year extension this summer.

The deal will see him earn $3.25 million annually.