Vancouver GM says Kesler will stay put if the right deal doesn’t come around

PHILADELPHIA – The Canucks says they are happy picking sixth in the NHL draft as it stands now but that hasn’t stopped new GM Jim Benning from making inquiries about what’s needed to move up.

Those calls will keep going right to the start of the draft Friday night.

Benning has a major asset to dangle in front of other clubs in the form of centre Ryan Kesler.

The Vancouver GM says the goal is to improve the team while helping Kesler get what he wants. If the team doesn’t think it can get a fair deal, Benning says it will keep Kesler.

Benning says they would be happy to have the 29-year-old Kesler back because he’s a great player.

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