For what it is worth Jason Botchford saw it the same way I did.
http://blogs.theprovince.com/2014/05/23/jim-bennings-first-day-what-we-learned/
Benning thinks he can fix the scouting issues with better communication:
“Vancouver plays in what may be the toughest division in the league. To win our division, we’re going to have to go through the Anaheims, the San Joses, and the LAs.
“They’re big, heavy teams.
“So, when we talk to our scouting staff, one of our mandates is let’s try to get bigger. Let’s get more rugged. So we can play both styles. So we can play a skilled, skating style when we need. But when it’s a rugged physical game, we can play that style, too.”
Goodbye Nylander and Ehlers. Unless it’s all a smokescreen?
But, seriously, how can you fix the scouting department which has been struggling for a decade at the draft, Jim?
“This is what I’m going to do, I come from a scouting background. We’re going to give these guys direction. I’m going to communicate to these guys what we want. What we think a Vancouver player should be.
“I’m going to work with them. I’m going to get out and see games. I’m going to be a part of that group. I’m going to try and make that group better.
“I know some of the guys and they’re excellent people. I’m not going to sit up here today and promise any changes.”
This idea that the scouts didn’t get proper direction is the same line they gave Gillis when he took over.
Benning is well aware of this.