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Bonino says he ‘gets by with his head and his hands’

Nick Bonino

FILE - In this April 13, 2014, file photo, Anaheim Ducks’ Nick Bonino celebrates his game-winning goal in overtime of an NHL hockey game against the Colorado Avalanche, in Anaheim, Calif. The Anaheim Ducks have acquired center Ryan Kesler from the Vancouver Canucks in a trade for center Nick Bonino, defenseman Luca Sbisa and the 24th overall pick in Friday’s June 27, 2014, draft. (AP Photo/Jae C. Hong, File)

AP

Many fans and media have been proclaiming the Anaheim Ducks the winner of the trade that sent Ryan Kesler to Southern California, but new Canucks forward Nick Bonino is hoping he can be a difference maker.

One of the criticisms of Bonino’s game has been his skating ability but, as Ben Kuzma of The Province shared, he’s hoping to make up for what he might lack with other skills.

“I think all my life I would say I’ve never been a bad skater, but some guys skate real well and I’ve been one of those guys who gets by with his head and his hands,” said Bonino. “Trying to make plays, being responsible — that’s what I’ll keep trying to do.”

Bonino, 26, had a career-year in Anaheim last season with 22 goals and 49 points. The big question surrounding him is whether it was a one-year flash-in-the-pan season or a true indication of what he can do if given more opportunity.

At the very least he’ll be making good use of his Boston University education and trying to outsmart opponents on the ice. Having a brain for the game can get you far.

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