What happened: The co-president said Vancouver expects to start from scratch during the first few years, with prospect development determining the pace. Henrik Sedin also brushed aside offseason trade rumors around Elias Pettersson and wants him focused on arriving prepared.

Why it matters: That approach puts drafting, development support and year-over-year progress at the center of Vancouver's plan. Tom Willander, Zeev Buium and Liam Ohgren are among the young players already viewed as part of the foundation.

What to watch: Pettersson's preparation and early-season role will show how Vancouver's support translates on the ice. Lineup decisions will also indicate how much responsibility the club gives its younger core.