from Ed Willes of the Vancouver Province,

The Linden-Jim Benning administration is about to enter Phase 2 of The Plan and that presents a more complex challenge than assembling the raw materials. Talent, to be sure, is a big consideration for any franchise trying to resurrect itself, but the real art of team-building lies in other, murky areas.

I mean, if it was as easy as showing up at the draft and picking in the top five, Arizona wouldn’t be last and fans in Edmonton would be a lot less angry. The more pressing issues concern chemistry, leadership, coaching and the assignment of roles, and that’s where the hard questions will be asked of Linden and Benning.

To date, they haven’t exactly inspired confidence with their game plan, and we trust this point doesn’t need further illumination. You need only look at the standings over the last three seasons to understand the organization has failed in its attempt to remain competitive while integrating younger players into the lineup.

But, beginning with the expected signing of Adam Gaudette later this year and the promotion of Thatcher Demko, this same management team will be entrusted with the prime assets that will shape the Canucks’ future. So, should they oversee this crucial stage of the franchise’s history? Should they be allowed to make those key decisions?

These are the crucial questions for the Aquilinis. Linden and Benning have made some glaring errors.

more