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Brandon Wheat Kings general manager Grant Armstrong has extra intel on Nolan Patrick. He should also have an added feel for the Canucks’ situation.

Armstrong pledges patience when he pushes Patrick. In other words, if you’re expecting Connor McDavid numbers, pump the brakes. If you’re thinking Auston Matthews 2.0, check yourself.

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Patrick, 18, a Wheat Kings centre listed at 6-foot-3 and 198 pounds, is many pundits’ choice as the top pick for the June 23 NHL Draft in Chicago, although there’s some growing suggestion that Swiss centre Nico Hischier, 18, who played for the QMJHL’s Halifax Mooseheads this season, is making a last-minute push to overtake him. The Canucks have a chance to be in the No. 1 mix, since they have the second-best odds to win the draft lottery on April 29, behind only Colorado.

Armstrong just completed his first season with the Wheat Kings. He’s well-versed in B.C.’s hockey market, too. He’s a North Delta native. He still has family here. Before going to Brandon, he was director of player personnel for the Victoria Royals, where he worked alongside former Canucks winger Dave Lowry, who is rumoured to be in the coaching mix with Vancouver again now.