Who Will Be Captain for Each NHL Team Without One? NHL Analyst Weighs In

Leadership on the ice is crucial, and with six teams currently without a captain, the upcoming training camps will likely see these roles filled. Selecting a captain is not just about skill-it's about finding a player who embodies the team's spirit and can guide them through the highs and lows of the season.

In this article, we'll explore one potential captain candidate for each of these six NHL teams, highlighting insights from NHL analyst Michael DeRosa.

While Cam Fowler, a veteran defenseman who has spent all 14 of his NHL seasons with the Ducks, is a strong candidate for the captaincy, the role might go to a younger star like Troy Terry.

Fowler's long tenure with the team makes him a natural choice, but as Michael DeRosa noted, Terry, 26, has become a key player for the Ducks in recent seasons and is under contract through the 2029-30 season, making him a potential long-term leader. DeRosa also highlighted that and could be a solid choice for the Ducks' next captain. Another player to watch is the rising talent, Mason McTavish.

The Buffalo Sabres have been without a captain since trading Kyle Okposo. When looking at their current roster, Rasmus Dahlin emerges as a prime candidate. while serving as an alternate captain. Although Alex Tuch is another viable option, Dahlin's status as the cornerstone of the franchise makes him the likely choice. As DeRosa pointed out,

While Connor Bedard is undoubtedly the future of the Chicago Blackhawks, Nick Foligno might serve as a bridge captain while Bedard adjusts to the NHL. Foligno, a former captain of the Columbus Blue Jackets, brings experience and leadership to a young Blackhawks team. DeRosa mentioned that and has proven his commitment by signing a two-year extension. This makes him a logical choice to lead the team in the short term.

Since trading Mark Giordano, the Seattle Kraken have not had a captain, but Jordan Eberle could be the one to take on this role. Eberle, along with Yanni Gourde, Adam Larsson, and Jaden Schwartz, has served as an alternate captain since the Kraken's inaugural season. DeRosa pointed out that due to his extensive experience and loyalty to the franchise, exemplified by his contract extension. His leadership could be invaluable to the Kraken's younger players.

The departure of Steven Stamkos leaves a significant void in the Tampa Bay Lightning's leadership. Victor Hedman, who has spent his entire 15-year career with the Lightning, is the frontrunner for the captaincy. DeRosa emphasized Hedman's importance to the team, stating, and a key leader for years. With his experience and long-standing commitment to the team, it would be surprising if he isn't named the next captain.

Entering their first season, the Utah Hockey Club could build around Clayton Keller as their captain. Keller, who was a dominant force for the Arizona Coyotes, now brings his talents to Utah. DeRosa noted that due to his experience and leadership qualities. With other options like Lawson Crouse, Nick Bjugstad, and Mikhail Sergachev available, Keller's previous role as an alternate captain makes him the standout choice.