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Photo by Sean Kilpatrick / THE CANADIAN PRESS

“It’s hard to replace that opportunity to play before family and friends,” he said Tuesday from Kelowna. “And nothing really compares to getting to play in Canada for the second time. And when you’re looking for a jump-start in a transitional year, to have that kind of support is a special feeling.

“They (Canucks) want to see more aggression because they know what I can do well in terms of moving the puck. I can shoot and drive the offensive part of the play and I’ve tried to address parts (that need improving) with a good summer of training and nutrition.”

That’s vital because not only has the competition level made a major leap in the Pacific Division, the Canucks were easier to play against in their own zone last season, especially after Erik Gudbranson was lost for the season to wrist surgery in December.

It doesn’t mean running guys through the boards, but it does mean boxing out properly, being smart enough to stick check effectively and move pucks quickly.

“Honestly, it’s just a mentality,” added Wiercioch. “It’s your stick and body position and engaging earlier. I’ve always been able to have good position in reading the play well, but I need to just do it sooner and having that mindset that the quicker you get it done, the quicker you get to the fun part — stuff that comes naturally and is easier.

“And that’s the kind of camp coach (Travis) Green wants. He wants it to be competitive and that’s exactly the position I want to be in.”