Arturs Silovs’s journey from an unassuming prospect in the AHL to a standout goalie in the NHL has been nothing short of remarkable, captivating fans and collectors alike. Initially slated for more time in the AHL, Silovs found himself catapulted into the limelight due to unexpected injuries to established goaltenders Thatcher Demko and Casey deSmith.
Silovs’s performances in the Stanley Cup playoffs were nothing short of extraordinary, defying expectations as he faced off against formidable opponents like the Nashville Predators. Despite the odds stacked against him, Silovs rose to the occasion, showcasing his skills with impressive saves, including a standout performance where he made 42 saves in a single game—an achievement matched by only two other Canucks goaltenders in away playoff games. While the Canucks eventually fell to the Oilers in Game 6, Silovs’s stellar performance was a beacon of hope amidst the team’s struggles.
Prior to his NHL breakthrough, Silovs had already been making waves in junior hockey with the Barrie Colts and on the international stage with HS Riga in Latvia. Despite flying under the radar in scouting reports, Silovs caught the attention of the Vancouver Canucks, who selected him in the sixth round of the 2019 NHL Draft. His standout performances at the World U18 Championships and the 2023 IIHF World Championships, where he played a pivotal role in helping Latvia clinch a historic bronze medal, solidified his reputation as a rising star in the world of hockey.
The spotlight on Silovs has extended to the realm of hockey card collecting, with his rookie cards in the Upper Deck Series 2 garnering significant interest and value among collectors. Particularly sought after are his Young Guns and Canvas Young Guns cards, with one of his Young Guns Red Outburst variants recently fetching an impressive $263. Silovs’s inclusion in other Upper Deck releases, as well as non-licensed BY cards from IIHF tournaments, has further boosted his appeal, especially among enthusiasts in Europe.
Looking ahead, the Vancouver Canucks face decisions regarding Silovs’s future role, whether as a backup to Demko or a potential trade asset. What remains undeniable is the impact of Silovs’s unexpected rise, not only solidifying his position as a key player for the Canucks but also elevating his status as a sought-after figure in the world of hockey card collecting.