As Jim Benning looks at the spotty roster at his Vancouver Canucks' disposal, he must wonder which pieces to move. Signs point to Zack Kassian as a forward available to the highest bidder.
Kassian has not met expectations, which stands in company, and not good, with the Canucks. Saturday's game against the Detroit Red Wings finds the Canucks at 21-12-3, scuffling along in the middle of the Pacific Division and Western Conference. Faceoff: 10 p.m. ET.
Benning's job continues to be making corrections in the Canucks' mix. The team was saddled with underperforming players by previous GM Mike Gillis. As the Globe and Mail of Toronto notes, the Canucks already disposed to two Gillis trade blunders, David Booth and Keith Ballard.
It's Kassian's turn in the bull's-eye. And the heat is on. Kassian knows he must play well. He missed the past 13 games after breaking a pinky finger. Pink isn't the color the Canucks want to see in Kassian's game.
Likely Kassian got a direct message from Benning, who as GM is judge and jury of every player's value to his team. Speaking to The Province of Vancouver, Benning gave his guarded assessment.
"He's got the physicality and size to be a power forward for us. He's going to have to embrace that style of game," Benning told The Province.
"That's how he's going to help us win."
Benning needs help, and Kassian figures to bring something if his boss can find a trade partner. With Dan Hamhuis out a couple months, an already shaky defense needs support. There is an equally crying need for scoring, with the Sedin twins struggling and the top-six forward aging.
Kassian was supposed to help. He hasn't. He must, if for no other reason than increase his trade value.