LeafsNation149
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- Feb 4, 2013
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When was the last time a 1st overall didn't become captain?
It's going to be Matthews for sure
Kane, Yakupov, Hall, RNH, MacKinnon, Ekblad to name a few
When was the last time a 1st overall didn't become captain?
It's going to be Matthews for sure
It's going to be Auston Matthews. I don't think anyone else comes close to be honest. Reilly is a good player but Matthews is a franchise player, mature beyond his years. Says and does all the right things. Obviously they can't name him captain in his rookie season but next season he will be wearing the C.
When was the last time a 1st overall didn't become captain?
It's going to be Matthews for sure
Our first overall, number one centre is going to be our very near future Captain. Reilly and Nylander for Alternates. You want players that let the worst of it roll of their back. I don't think Nylander does insecurity. Kid's a natural leader. A very balanced group going forward.
I think it boils down to Matthews vs Rielly.
I have always thought Rielly was the best option but seeing Matthews in his short appearance this far, I am definitely thinking they should wait.
People get a little angry when I suggest I like a Leaf-drafted Canadian guy as Captain. I just like the idea of our captain being Canadian and representing the biggest Canadian fan base. Also, hopefully playing for Team Canada internationally.
BUT!!!!!!! What I am seeing in Matthews is definitely making me rethink that. If he can achieve the level of play many people see him achieving, I would be all for Matthews as captain. Even if it meant watching our captain play for Team USA.
Also a fan of co-captains - both Rielly and Matthews. If both players achieve expectations and turn into leaders I'd be all for co-captains (first half of the year - they alternate captaincy home and away then switch the later half).
Kane, Yakupov, Hall, RNH, MacKinnon, Ekblad to name a few
Probably long term
Matthews - C
Rielly - A
Kadri - A
Do we really want to put the pressure of being the captain of one of the biggest hockey market in the world on a 20 year old sophomore? I don't think this brass wants to do that; unless Matthews shows above and beyond that he's more than ready. If the captain is named next year; it's going to be Rielly. If Matthews is named captain, it'll be in 2-3 years time.
Only 3 of 10 1st overalls since Crosby have been captains so far.
To be fair Ekblad is going to become captain soon, Hall might be captain in NJ after a successful season or two.