Jake Virtanen played 55 games for the Vancouver Canucks as a rookie last season.

This year, he was sent to the AHL after 10 games and has not been recalled since.

Now, the 2014 sixth overall pick says he's focused on coming back stronger than ever in order to make the Canucks roster next season.

“I want to go into camp and be in phenomenal shape, and I’m already pretty prepared for that and I’m completely dedicated to that,” Virtanen told the Vancouver Province. “I’m going to be really excited and I have to be an everyday guy.”

According to the Province, Virtanen, who's listed by the league's website at 229 lbs, is down to 213 pounds. The 20-year-old scored seven goals and added six assists in 55 games with the Canucks last season. This season, he had just one assist in 10 games before being assigned to the Utica Comets.

Virtanen owns seven goals and nine assists in 56 games with the Comets this season, but told the Province he's making strides in becoming a better a player.

“In the last month, I’ve taken another step in my game and they’ve been pushing me in the right direction,” Virtanen said. “I’m trying to be a difference-maker every night, and this (AHL) is a tougher league than guys think.

“Whether it’s scoring goals or making plays, being that physical presence and using the jump that I have, I’ve got to find a way to help the team win.”

The Canucks have called up several prospects in recent weeks, but Virtanen has not been among them. General manager Jim Benning said earlier this month he believes Virtanen will benefit from contending for a playoff spot down the stretch with the Comets.

Virtanen will turn 21 on August 17.