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“It’s because every game you can learn something. I think every time you step on the ice to play, it’s a valuable experience. You can go through situations in (AHL) games that will help you be ready when the same things happen on the big stage.”

Many, and you can include Demko in this, are hoping the 22-year-old can compete and earn a spot this fall with the Canucks, fitting in as Jacob Markstrom’s backup.

In his first two seasons with the Canucks, Cory Schneider played in 25 and 33 games. That was on a team trying to win a ring and he was taking playing minutes away from one of the game’s greats, Roberto Luongo.

So if he’s ready and earns it, Demko could get similar playing time on a Travis Green team. But would it be enough?

Younger goalies are being worked into the NHL earlier in development and some have been shuttled between NHL teams and their AHL affiliates, ensuring there’s enough playing time when the No. 1 goalies go on a run.

It’s not impossible to do here, but because of the distance between Vancouver and Utica it’s certainly more challenging.

It’s among the top reasons why an AHL team located closer to Vancouver, or even in the city, could make sense in the future.

“I do think that’s a huge bonus for goaltenders,” Cloutier said. “If you have a team in your backyard, you cannot only call a player up for a game, but you can get more practice time.

“I think it’s very, very valuable for the goalie position. It would be a huge help for sure. Think of Toronto, their goalie coach could have a set of eyes on their AHL guys every day if he wants to.”