The debate of the C

So many sports bloggers struggle over this discussion, it happens every year after the season where grizzled vets called it quits and Captaincy becomes vacant for the following year. Last year we saw young stars such as Ryan Getzlaf, Eric Staal and Shea Weber all receive the C for their respective teams, and like last summer the positions are open. Teams such as the Avs, Islanders, Blues, Sabres, Panthers, Devils, Rangers and Flyers all have no current captain, so it might be the time for youth at captain like we have seen in the past. While I could make my case for Tavares in NY or Myers in Buffalo, I will focus on the Avs and the 4-man race that I have narrowed it down to. In order from my most likely candidate,

1. Matt Duchene - A bold statement, but I believe the young Duchene is ready to take on the responsibilities of Captain of this team. While he certainly takes care of the goal scoring, Duchene took much bigger strides in his sophomore season, and I believe that his game only gets better as the years progress. Duchene is certainly ready to be the top centre, and with the addition of Gabriel Landeskog he might have a proven winger (along with Hejduk) to showcase his complete skills. I think that age plays a huge factor in the final decision, but the 20 year old is a future captain of this team and next season might be the start.

2. Paul Stastny - Prior to Duchene entering the NHL, Stastny was the franchise center and top forward. He certainly possesses the two-way skills to be a Captain, and leads with his play on the ice. I think that Stastny is the most logical choice to be the captain, regardless of all the recent trade talk he is staying with the team. Stastny had a rough year this past season, and often took harsh criticism about not living up to his huge contract. He is due for a rebound season, and having the C on his sweater would give him complete confidence.

3. Milan Hejduk - Longest serving Av is the veteran choice for the Captain. He has been with the team through good and bad, winning the cup in 2001 but also taking part in recent struggles. The veteran sniper certainly might get asked to wear the C, but he isn't the typical "expressive" leader that coaches look for in a captain. Hejduk leads with his play on the ice, and that might get him the captain but not my first guess.

4. Erik Johnson - Darkhorse pick, cornerstone defence for the Avs could thrive as the top defender and certainly possesses the skills of a leader. Would make a great captain just hasn't been with the team enough.

To conclude, the captain is an extremely important position in hockey and ultimately Head Coach Joe Sacco will have a lot to figure out before naming the C. I wouldn't be surprised with any of these 4 suitable candidates, but I hope for Duchene to wear the C
-Joel Forman - Colorado Avalanche News