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BEST RUNDOWN

We do know a few things on Benning’s situation.

For one, TL16 doesn’t believe the last few months of the season should not impact his situation, and whether the extension happens, or not.

Two, there have been ongoing “discussions” between Benning and TL16 which, let’s be real, are negotiations.

I would suggest those negotiations have concluded.

Based on this, and some other sourced evidence, I believe Linden supports Jim and wants him back.

Ultimately, however, ownership gets the final say on it and has the hammer.

And so here we are.

Waiting.

There have been suggestions the Aquilinis are waiting it out to see what their options are before they sign off on what’s next for Benning.

Many believe Holland tops the list. But, as covered here and in other places, the chances of him coming to work for team that has another hockey executive in place who is already a president.

Realistically who are we talking about then?

Who are the possibilities?

One name that has generated a lot of outside buzz when it comes to linking up with the Canucks is former Kings overlord Dean Lombardi.

Some think that makes sense because he has name and an LA background, two things that would be appealing to the Aquilinis.

But there’s nothing to wait for with Lombardi, it you really wanted him, he’s there to be had.

After Holland and Lombardi, the list gets thin if you’re looking for people with experience.

Some seem to think Bowman is in trouble in Chicago, but this seems outlandish.

But he’s there being asked about his job security, so it’s a thing.

There’s one other experienced executive on an expiring deal who would be of interest to the Canucks owners if available and that’s Chuck Fletcher.

(Not for nothing, one of his worst decisions is considered signing Vanek to a three-year deal back in 2014)

I this Fletcher would be high on the Canucks list if not at the top if they were to finally decide to make a move.

After that, you start looking at GMs who are trouble like Chiarelli and Bergevin and things get incredibly bleak real quick.