Upper Deck Series 2 Young Guns cards are generating buzz not only for Connor Bedard but also for the likes of Vancouver Canucks goalie Arturs Silovs, who has emerged as a key figure. Originally positioned as the third-choice goalie and likely to spend more time in the AHL, Silovs found himself thrust into the NHL limelight due to injuries to Thatcher Demko and Casey deSmith. What followed was an unexpected rise as Silovs became a pivotal player in the Stanley Cup playoffs.
Initially underestimated when he stepped in during the playoffs, Silovs quickly proved his mettle, especially notable during a game where he made 42 saves, one of the highest in Canucks away playoff history. Despite a team loss in Game 6 against the Oilers, Silovs's individual performance remained strong.
Silovs's journey began in international junior hockey and the Latvian leagues before being drafted by the Canucks in the sixth round of the 2019 NHL Draft—a move not widely noted at the time. His breakout performances at the World U18 Championships and subsequently at the 2023 IIHF World Championships, where he helped Latvia win its first medal, elevated his status significantly.
His trading cards, particularly the Upper Deck Series 2 Young Guns and Canvas Young Guns cards, have seen a remarkable increase in interest and value among collectors. The most notable sale was a Young Guns Red Outburst variant that fetched over $260. Silovs also features in other card sets like O-Pee-Chee Marquee Rookies and the Upper Deck Trilogy, with his cards becoming increasingly sought after.
As the new season approaches, the Canucks must decide whether to keep Silovs as a backup to Demko or leverage his rising stock in a trade. Regardless, Silovs's rapid ascent has positioned him as one of the most intriguing young talents in both the NHL and the sports card collecting world.