VANCOUVER (CP) -- Three years ago the Vancouver Canucks made perhaps the wisest purchase in franchise history.
 They claimed left-winger Martin Gelinas off waivers for $22,500 from the Quebec Nordiques.
 Since then the 26-year-old from Shawinigan, Que., has been the most consistent player for an NHL team that's noted for inconsistency.
 Gelinas goes about doing his job with enthusiasm and dedication, something the rest of the Canucks might want to duplicate in the name of professionalism.
 For his efforts, Gelinas is highly regarded by both teammates and management. He wears an 'A' on the left shoulder of his game jersey to signify he's an assistant captain.
 Gelinas tries to lead by example, but often there's not enough followers as the Canucks wallow below .500, plagued by thoughtless performances.
 "It's really hard to find what the answer is," Gelinas said Tuesday. "We do need to work harder, for sure.
 "We have a lot of talent, but we need to do it as a team. To make the playoffs, we must be more consistent."
 The usually placid Gelinas broke his silence recently when he spoke out against the nagging habits of some teammates who often took the easy way out in physical games.
 Gelinas was critial of the Canucks' play, but careful not to name individuals, much like head coach Tom Renney.
 "We haven't done anything great to get on a roll and get our confidence," Gelinas said. "When we do play hard, we can do good things."
 The Canucks rewarded Gelinas with a new four-year contract that calls for $775,000 Cdn this season, with increases to $825,000, $900,000 and $975,000.
 "He exemplifies what's needed to play this game," Renney said. "His work habits makes him a valuable player."
 Gelinas was drafted seventh overall by the Los Angeles Kings in 1988 from the junior Hull Olympiques.
 He was then traded to Edmonton in the multi-player Wayne Gretzky deal that year and moved on to Quebec in 1993 for Scott Pearson. Not until he reached Vancouver did Gelinas establish himself as an NHL regular.
 "It makes a big difference when you play a lot," Gelinas said. "The Canucks were willing to give me the chance and I appreciate that."
 His face is lined with jagged scars from many battles along the boards and in front of the net. Gelinas sports a nifty goatee and may not shave until the team makes the playoffs.
 Linemate Russ Courtnall appreciates the efficient work habits of Gelinas.
 "He brings a lot to this team, he's truly a great leader," Courtnall said. "He shows his emotions on the ice, for the team."
 Added captain Trevor Linden: "He's a team guy and that says a lot about him. Marty's the consummate professional."
 

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