Young players picking up lessons with rebuilding Vancouver Canucks

PENTICTON - Braeden Cootes, a 19-year-old centre, is adjusting to living out of a suitcase as he prepares to prove his worth for a spot in the Vancouver Canucks' lineup. The Canucks have brought 12 young players, aged 21 or under, to their training camp in Penticton, B.C., this week, with Cootes among them. The team aims to be patient with their prospects, not wanting them to bounce between the American Hockey League and NHL.

Veteran player Brendan Gallagher and defenceman Luke Schenn have joined the team in free agency, with Schenn looking to mentor younger players, showcasing the kindness he received early in his career. Star rookie defenceman Zeev Buium, acquired in a trade for captain Quinn Hughes, has impressed with three goals and nine assists over 45 games so far, earning an eight-year, US$75-million extension.