True but losing the player with the C can be devastating for the rest of the players and the team as a whole. He's obviously the best player on the team but I'm not convinced he's the best leader, especially given that if there's a resolution to the lockout he's gone. Honestly wouldn't surprise me if the Oilers and HC have a little handshake deal in place somehow that was contingent on RNH getting the C. Remember the Sens aren't lending Zibanejad to Sweden from the AHL.
I think it doesn't matter. Losing RNH, possibly Huberdeau and Hamilton would be a disaster whether they're wearing a letter or not.
Because he's played in the NHL, was the first overall pick etc. he's going to be looked up to and counted on. Was the easy decision.
Doubt there is a "handshake deal" in place... Hockey Canada wouldn't let that happen. The reason Zibanejad isn't going is two fold... 1. He already won a gold medal last year, scoring the OT goal 2. He needs to adjust to the NA game
RNH was cut two years ago and has unfinished business... this is likely something he wanted.