Sasson has proven to be a monster two-way contributor at even strength as he leads the team in 5v5 goal differential with a plus-16 rating.

Graphs courtesy of Cody Severtson of CanucksArmy.

It’s important to note that Sasson has achieved these numbers despite facing off against the opposition’s top brass night in and night out.

He’s consistently playing matchup roles, thriving in all three zones of the ice surface.

While his numbers are by no means earth-shattering, the consistency at which he’s been able to produce as a pro has been a bright spot for a team that struggles with consistency.

Since November, Sasson has only endured one instance where he went without points in consecutive games. As of today, he is on a personal six-game point streak, notching seven points during this period, which stands as the longest of his professional career.

With six game-winning goals already this season, which places him third league-wide, Sasson requires just one more to surpass the franchise record for most game-winning goals in a single season.

The next centre call-up option?

It’s no secret what Rick Tocchet values: hard work, consistency, and sound habits.

Well, Sasson’s point production and brand of hockey check all of those boxes, and most of his point contributions can be linked to his sustained work ethic. On most nights, Sasson has made a habit of easing the burden for his teammates, often grinding out pucks to sniff out scoring opportunities. He consistently leads the forecheck and isn’t afraid to battle along the boards to regain possession.

It’s this willingness to battle in the dirty areas that makes him such a potent scoring threat in the AHL — and a linemate’s dream.

And boy, when he breaks through on the transition, he can keep up with the best of them.

“He’s pretty explosive,” Jeremy Colliton told Canucks.com insider Chris Faber.

“He’s able to get separation, win races, create transition chances. He’s got really good instincts and hockey sense to take advantage of those situations that his skating puts him in. Last year, he was just trying to survive. It’s hard. Your habits and your details have to be so good to survive and he did well. Now it’s a new season. He’s doing more offensively, being a difference-maker for us, but not losing the details away from the puck and managing the game. That’s part of his evolution.”

On top of his ability to bottom-six hockey, he’s a true centreman through and through.

His strength in the faceoff circle and his commitment to responsible, two-way hockey have made him a valuable asset to the Abbotsford team. While sticking to that brand of hockey can sometimes diminish a young skater’s production, Sasson seems to have found a comfortable balance.

At the end of the day, Vancouver is on the verge of their first playoff run in nearly a decade. With that, it feels unlikely that Sasson gets his moment anytime this year without a significant need up the middle. Even then, a player such as Sheldon Dries, who has 122 NHL games of experience, may be given the benefit in a pinch.

Nevertheless, with several contracts set to expire this summer, Sasson will likely receive serious consideration during training camp for a roster spot.

With a mix of speed, determination and skill, his game wreaks of “Tocchet-type” hockey. Canucks fans shouldn’t be surprised to see his name either on the roster next year or considered a top promotion candidate.

For now, he will be called upon to be a key member of the baby Canucks’ second playoff push in as many seasons as he continues to grind for his opportunity at the professional ranks.