For that to occur, the left-shot Demitra has to regain a quick release that allowed him to collect 752 points in 819 career games and another 53 points in 83 playoff games. He has to regain the confidence to know that he can absorb a hit, rather than going out of his way -- and out of his character -- to deliver one. That's what Demitra did when he checked Chicago defenceman Brian Campbell into the endboards at GM Place during the second round of the playoffs.

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Pavol Demitra hasn't played for the Canucks due to a shoulder injury since last season's playoff round against Chicago.

Photograph by : Getty Images Files

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"That's hockey," shrugs Demitra. "I tried to maybe do a little bit too much and go as hard as I can. It was the playoffs and that's what you have to try to do. He kind of saw me at the last second and moved his body and put all his weight on my left shoulder."

What scoring load Demitra can eventually shoulder will determine his worth -- whether it's here or elsewhere. But moving is not his motivation. Staying is.

"I love this city and my family is happy here," he says. "It's a very exciting city to play in."

bkuzma@theprovince.com