Oil Country has been buzzing for the last two years on who our next Captain should be. Should it be Taylor Hall? What about Jordan Eberle? Maybe Whitney? (well that was two years ago to be fair?) How about the case for Ryan Nugent-Hopkins?
At the time of Hall being selected 1st OV at the 2010 NHL Entry Draft, their was discussion and talk that Taylor Hall should be that man. His drive, passion, his work ethic is unbelievable. He has never been a Captain in his past so we really don't know his potential in that role but we do know he wants to be a leader, he has stated such.
Whitney? I believe with his injury uncertainty , that has pretty much pushed him out of the equation even though it was small chance it would happen anyway. His demeanor on the ice and in the dressing room and his Hockey IQ made him a good candidate but this is the here and now so that bus has really passed.
In the consideration of Ryan Nugent-Hopkins, this WJHC was his first opportunity to take on that role since he was 15 years old. He did a splendid job but some would argue there was not much to do on ice but the off ice stuff is where he truly excelled in that role. Coach Spott was more then pleased with how Ryan led this team. Several of the younger players stated the same. His competitive level is second to none but may not always appear so to those on the outside.
In the Case of Jordan Eberle, he has been a assistant several times in his past, leads by being one of the last players on the ice, continually working on his skills late after practice or early before. He appears to work well when having to deal with the officials. This is where I see Jordan being different then Hall.
We all know Hall can push the envelope when it comes to complaining with the officials but Jordan is a much calmer person who seldom has a altercation with a official who skates away instead of actually having a conversation. Ryan is a awesome player but being so young and not having a strong personality could make things difficult when leading older veterans especially in the off ice activities.
Maybe I am reading between the lines of what I hear and what I see but to me JORDAN EBERLE is more poised to be the next Captain of the Edmonton Oilers. Be it 1 or 2 years away yet, Jordan 'Clutch' Eberle IMO is the perfect material you want for a captain. Having Hall and RNH carrying A's along with Smid and you pick the fourth alternating player.
That's my take on the next captain of the Edmonton Oilers, whats yours? Share your thoughts or opinions. Disagree, agree? Give us your take!
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