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There is Tryamkin’s improving game, expiring contracts and prospects either on the cusp of promotion or requiring more minor-league seasoning. The timing could be right for the return of the 6-foot-8, 254-pound Tryamkin because there has been dialogue.

“His game and his style are more suited for the NHL than the KHL,” Diamond said Monday in a telephone interview from Florida. “I believe it will be an easy transition. And having been there before, he kind of knows what to expect. He knows what’s going to be demanded of the coaching and training staff and he’s committed.

“He never lost hope. He’s got a lot of pride and always wanted to come back. And this is probably the right time because you want this unit (roster) to grow together.”

Photo by Gerry Kahrmann / PNG files

Tryamkin had 11 points (2-9) and a plus-10 rating in 58 games in this KHL season. He was solid for an offensively challenged club eliminated in five games of a first-round playoff series. In one outing, Tryamkin had a team-leading 21:31 of ice time, two hits and one shot. In another, he had six shots, three blocked shots and two hits in 24:23.

“The first year there he had more points (25) than the second or third and I look at it as a positive,” said Diamond. “The team made big changes at forward and he was not as aggressive rushing the puck because the team was lacking offence. He changed to fit the style of team. That’s growth.

“He just understands himself better now.”

Reacclimating to the North American game and culture might be easier than hammering out a new deal. Diamond doesn’t expect his client to be presented with a two-way contract, in case the Canucks believe the defenceman would need development time in Utica with the AHL Comets.