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As the NHL draft approaches, consider the state of the Vancouver Canucks.

Over the last three years they’ve assembled a nucleus of young impact players who figure to form the core of the team for the next six-to-eight years. Behind them is another tier of prospects who lack the star power of the marquee group but should, in time, produce two or three players for the parent club.

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As for the payroll, the Canucks have just over US$30 million in cap space with, sigh, Alex Edler looming as the only complicating factor. Add the 10th-overall pick in what’s considered a good 2019 draft class — while conveniently ignoring the Canucks’ record over the last four seasons — and the faithful should feel optimistic about this summer and the opportunities it represents.

“We want to keep the forward momentum,” said Canucks general manager Jim Benning. “I think our younger players will be better next year and if we can add players around them to support them, we want to look at that. We’re kind of open-minded about looking at everything and what this week offers. Between the trade market and the UFAs (unrestricted free agents) we want to improve our team.”