McCann decision looms for Canucks

GAME DAY: VANCOUVER AT DALLAS, 5 P.M.

VANCOUVER — In Willie Desjardins’ world, there is good and real good. There is seldom “bad” and never “really bad” when the Vancouver Canucks coach assesses a game or a player.

In Jared McCann’s world, there is confidence, hope and an emerging game where the good far outweighs any bad. And as the rookie centre creeps closer to his 10th regular-season game, which would burn the first year of his entry-level contract — No. 8 is today in Dallas and No. 9 is Friday in Glendale, Arizona — he says exactly what you expect about extending his NHL stay and not being returned to Sault Ste. Marie of the OHL.

“I don’t even know when Game 9 is — I don’t want to know,” says the 19-year-old McCann. “I’m really not focused on that, and I’m only focused on what I can control. I’m trying to earn his [Desjardins’] respect.”

Rookie Jake Virtanen was always going to be a roster consideration because of his imposing size and ability to skate with the big boys. But McCann’s uncanny ability to beat odds, beat injury and health setbacks and beat a path to the net has become talk of the town. And for a club looking to generate a buzz beyond better food options at Rogers Arena, this is a win-win proposition. You can win with youth and fill empty seats.

McCann’s two-goal performance Tuesday and team-leading four goals certainly work in his favour. Desjardins has always lauded the speed, skill and quick release of the club’s 2014 firstround pick, who willingly plays in traffic. He has turned a plodding fourth line into one with offensive potential. And with better play away from the puck and a stronger presence in the faceoff circle, the lingering question about the shifty centre listed at six-foot and 179 pounds, is about the durability to handle physical play and mental pressure.

“I’ve got to avoid hits and not put myself in a bad position, and that’s a key thing,” says McCann.