Next Canucks Captain & Jersey Giveaway
byWhile the Canucks prepare to enter their 40th season they are currently without a defined team captain. Roberto Luongo gave up the “C” a few weeks ago and the city is wondering just who will be the next person to lead our team on the ice and in the dressing room. I thought I would enlist three prominent Canucks bloggers to chime in on the subject.
Brian Wawryshyn
CanucksCorner.com
ÂÂIf I was personally choosing the next captain of the Vancouver Canucks, I would go with Henrik Sedin. All the people that didn’t think Markus Naslund made a good captain are now cringing, I know. However, I believe Henrik, and to a slightly lesser extent Daniel, have become the face of the franchise. Henrik is an NHL award winner, the league’s MVP and he was the quiet leader through a tough stretch last season and our most consistent player. I know that Ryan Kesler is the physical in your face type player that can go out and throw that big hit to ignite his teammates. He’s emotional and provides a lot to the lineup when he’s healthy, but I think Henrik is the better choice, the calming influence, and the quiet leader on and off the ice.
That said, if I had any say in the matter, I would let the player vote on the captaincy assignments as they know better than any of us who the leaders on this team are.
Richard Loat
CanucksHockeyBlog.com
I don’t think there’s any one player without flaw that is capable of being captain. I would have gone with co-captains, but Gillis has shot that down. I think while captaincy used to be a big deal, based on the media circus that hockey has become, the role of captain has become nearly synonymous with “scape-goat”. If I had to pick one I’d go with Henrik. Kesler’s time will come soon enough.
Sean Zandberg
NucksMisconduct.com
It is difficult to answer the question on who should be the next Canucks captain. I don’t get to see what happens in the locker room. I cannot see which player motivates the players the most and provides the rally cry. I don’t know which player is regarded as the biggest leader in that regard. So it comes down to what I see on the ice. Henrik Sedin had a monster campaign in 2009-10 and that may sway a lot of votes in his direction. To me, that’s all fine and dandy, but Daniel Sedin is capable of doing the same thing. He would have scored about 111 points had he played all 82 games. So I’ll leave scoring out of my sorting process.
What I go by is how a guy plays and what his persona is in front of the press. In that regards, I’ll go with Ryan Kesler. When the Canucks play like a pile of manure Ryan Kesler says it in front of the press. He plays a 2-way game with excellence. He blocks shots, fights if he has to. He’s a gladiator. A warrior. He wears his heart on his sleeve. That is a guy I would want to follow, especially where it matters most…in the playoffs.
If you would like to add your two cents to the discussion, please leave a comment on this post. One contributor will win a 40th anniversary edition Canucks jersey from the Canucks Team Store (as seen in the photo above). I will draw one name from all comments/entries Tuesday October 12th at 9:00am.
Update October 9, 2010 As we’ll probably see a “C” on someone’s jersey tonight, you can enter to win the jersey after October 9th simply by leaving a comment about how you feel about the decision.
Update October 12, 2010 The winner (drawn at random) is Del Herbert. Thanks to everyone for their input and I hope we can all get behind Henrik as he leads us into a new Canucks era.
301 Comments — Comments Are Closed
I’d like to see Hank get it! However, at the open practice yesterday, Kesler was the one to welcome and thank the crowd for coming out. The thought occurred to me for a second that maybe he’s going to get the big C. But maybe it doesn’t mean anything.
Maybe?
I think it should be Kesler.
The captain should ABSOLUTELY be Henrik. He’s a stabling influence and a great player. It’s not as if Kesler can’t provide leadership from the ‘A’ badge he’s already wearing.
I think Henrik is in a good place right now, seems to be pretty lucky recently, so I think he’s a good candidate for Captain!
I don’t think Hank – a phenomenal player – has the sort of grit that you really want in a Captain. I’d vote Kessler. It’s not a question of talent or value, just whose a better fit for the role.
I think the majority of people will agree that Henrik is the fore runner when it comes to the captain spot, but Sean Zandberg makes a good point that Kesler is a bit more gritty in terms of coming out and saying what exactly needs to be said. Kes has got a bit more spunk and fight in my opinion. But Henrik has Hart!
A lesson could be gleaned from Luongo giving up the C, which allows him to concentrate just on keeping pucks out of the net. The same arguement can be made for Henrik and affecting his abilities to put pucks past the goalie on the other end. Why complicated the game for the league lead point maker?
I’m for Kesler!
Hank’s the Hart Trophy winner, has to be him
Definitely Kesler!
PS. Dear Kesler: I’m sorry for gawking at you while you ate at Opus! 🙂
My brain says Kesler (age, grit, outspokenness) but my heart says Henrik (solid, no quit, the Hart trophy!, been here longer and totally consistent, solid role model for the team)
I think that Henrik will be the next Vancouver Canucks captain. With his play last season and the way he is so calm and cool when speaking with the media and in front of the camera I think it is the logical choice.
I agree with Brian above! I think Hank has matured to be a great leader that the Canucks respect!
Henrik Sedin should be the next Canucks captain. He is respected league-wide and is a great teammate and leader. And he loves Vancouver!
I would like Kesler to be captain, but it will probably be Hank.
Hopefully they make a good choice and choose Henrik. He’s got game 🙂
@A.J. “A lesson could be gleaned from Luongo giving up the C, which allows him to concentrate just on keeping pucks out of the net.” I fully agree with you and with Henrik NOT donning the C, it will allow him to concentrate on putting pucks IN the net. Definitely down with Sean Zandberg…..Ryan Kesler for Captain!
Give it to Henrik and add to the competition between him and Daniel 🙂
There is so much hype over Henrik for captain. I think his last season proved, he is a great leader to be followed. He is still young (i.e. can pull out a few more great seasons before peaking) and his face has become (along with his brother)synonymous with representing the franchise.
Kesler would also be a great choice, perhaps a promotion is in order =)
I want Hank to win. I think he has gained the respect of the entire league, and could be a great leader on and off the ice. That way, the captain won’t sound like we are booing him on the ice.
Although it’s just a letter on a jersey. The Canucks have quite a lot of leadership in the locker room. But, what defines a captain, for me, is a player that is a leader on and off the ice. One who shows passion, determination and grit. Emotion in winning and losing. Has that ability to boost the team in a single shift. For me that player is Ryan Kesler.
I’m torn between Hank and Kesler. I definitely agree with Sean of nucksmisconduct.com; Kesler certainly seems more of a leader, at least outwardly. At the same time, Hank seems to practice a sort of temperance that could be really beneficial when it comes to roughing it out – but that might lead to a lack of urgency. It’s kind of a two-way street for me right now, but I’m excited to see who ends up with the ‘C’ come season-opener night, and I’m sure they’ll do us proud.
I would definitely go with Kesler. We want the Cup and i want a captain who come playoff time has what it takes to take his game up a notch and inspire those around him to do the same. It was this characteristic that set Trevor apart as a wonderful leader. Hendrik is a great leader in his own right but if we’re looking for someone to lead us to the Cup its got to be Ryan. In my humble opinion.
I don’t think there is a clear choice, especially with us having a young team overall. But in the absence of someone stepping up, it should probably go to Hank, award winning, team experience, lead by example kind of guy. Just dont expect any barn burning speeches.
I believe henrik would make a great captain only problem is it could cause tension between the sedan brothers. Imagine this you and your sibling start the same position at the same time and have wanted to do this your whole life and now one of you is being promoted! You are so thrilled about it but it won’t be easy to take direction/give direction to the other sibling and cause tension. I have had this scenario play out with my best friend and it wrecked our friendship so because of that I vote kesler!
I would like to see Henrik as the next captain. I think he would shine.
Kesler would be a solid choice.
How is this even a debate?
Henrik Sedin @ $6.1 million won the Art Ross and the Hart trophies last season. The twins could have commanded upwards of $7 mill elsewhere but settled for less because they knew we couldn’t afford that much.
Henrik is polite with the media, he knows how to handle the pressure in a market where we are starved for a championship, he’s durable, dedicated, disciplined, and has the respect of his peers.
Just because he’s Swedish doesn’t mean he’s Naslund. Give him the C!
I’d say Kesler. I agree with the comments above the Daniel is as competent a player as Henrik, but for the injury last season. Both have nice-guy personas. Kesler is has more of the in-your-face bravado about him to lead the team.
I go with Henrik. He put in the time and effort last season, and really shone. He’s also put in the time as a Canuck, and shown his dedication to the team and City of Vancouver. Could just as easily been Daniel, but given his awards last year, he rises above. Another idea: Henrik this year, Daniel next!
I think it should go to Kesler; although, I can definitely see why they would give it to Hank. I guess well just have to wait and see!
I would’ve said Mitchell if he was still with the team but Hank is definitely a good choice. I’m still waiting for the day one of the Sedins gets really upset and punches the lights out of someone on the opposing team. You never know, it might happen =)
As much as I love Henrik as an option, I think Kesler would make a better captain – he would be much more vocal and passionate about the role, whereas Henrik I think would be too ‘nice’ (for a captain)!
While I don’t think it really matters all that much at the end of it all as they’d both bring really good things to the table, my personal vote would be for Kesler. For the past few years even though sedin sedin luongo are considered the key pieces of this team, i’ve felt that Kesler and Burrows were the true heart and soul, and they’re the guys I’ll remember this from this era of the Canucks pantheon. So my personal vote is for Kesler, but my opinion is that it will go to Henrik. Like I said, neither is a bad choice.
Give Henrik the C all the way!!!
Captian Hank!
A captain is someone I think, can a should change a game, with goals, setting up plays or can change the momentum of the game by stepping out on the Ice. A leader on and off the ice – the boys/media respect Hanks approach with all aspects of the game, but he has also done a lot for charity in the community. Kes would be good but his game sometimes plays the role of an agitator, chirps and beaks off a bit which could and has landed him in the box.
Through Hanks play and efforts in the community has not only set him up for Captaincy but also as a great role model as well.
we are all canucks.
I would take Kesler just for his ability to show that emotion and passion for the game. The Sedins are great players, but should be concentrating on the goals. I think that Ryan Kesler could handle the role and do it justice for the Canucks.
Henrik Sedin for sure! When we were tied in game 4 vs. LA in last year’s first round… And it was looking bad in the 3rd period like we could potentially go down 3-1 in series? Henrik steps up and scores on and end-to-end rush to save our season.
We’re also talking about the team MVP last year, the LEAGUE MVP of the entire NHL, the scoring champion (Art Ross winner)… It is a no brainer… Hank is the man! Give him the C.
I think Henrik Sedin should be given a chance at it!
Kesler could do it, but I also like the idea of co-captains 🙂
I was thinking EXACTLY what Carolos wrote above. Either Henrik or Kesler would make great captains, but for different reasons. Chances are, it’s going to Henrik.
It’s got to be Henrik, He is the leader of this team. Quiet leaders seem to be the ones winning the Stanley Cup lately. Kesler will remain assistant.
If Daniel won the MVP last season, would he be the next captain? Burrows is the Canucks biggest cheerleader, what about him?
Henrik Sedin. His time has come.
I think Henrik should get it. He’s shown so much consistency on the ice, and a quiet leader that leads is better than a loud leader that is ineffective. He has the charisma.
My Vote is for Henrik.
Captains are to lead by example: Henrik!
It should be Henrik, I think it needs to be his time.
Ill got with Henrik. Kesler is great but I think he is too “in your face” to be an effective captain.
Henrik is probably the best choice right now but he maybe too modest for the part.
Perhaps there isn’t a need for a captain right now.
Let the season start and see if someone steps up.
I don’t want to be repetitive but… HENRIK!!
A captain should be vocal too (when needed) and I think that fits the bill for Kesler over Hank… both of them are great players, but I think Kes has more intangibles to give him the nod.
Of course an internal locker-room vote would likely be better than any of us fans speculating from the outside.
Henrik, all the way.
I think it’s Henrik’s time. He deserves to lead this group. Kesler still needs to put a few more years under his belt.
I think it’ll be Henrik. You see him in all the promo pictures with Kurt.
I think it should be Henrik. #33 has proven that he can carry the heavy expectations that the team and the city have. Don’t get me wrong, I love Kesler’s work ethic and the fact that he’s vocal is great… I just don’t think he’s ready.
I was really hoping BMo would be signed at take over the C. Silly and probably not nice to the other guys in the locker room? Oh, definitely. But this team doesn’t have a true leader or captain. I say make it a rotating C til someone fully steps up. (That being said, I really think Hank WILL get it)
I say it should be Kesler. More than Henrik (who can carry the team by himself on any given night), Kesler seems to be the bigger influence on the rest of the team. When he’s on, the whole team is on. When he’s off, the whole team seems off. I’ve seen plenty of games where Henrik is doing everything on his own. But that’s not necessarily good.
That being said, hasn’t there only been 2 non-Canadian captains to win the cup (Hatcher – Dallas ’99, Lidstrom – Detroit ’08)? Maybe we need a Canadian captain. Like…umm…Burrows?
Ryan Kesler.
Henrik Sedin holds a special place im my family’s hearts because of all the work he does with Canuck Place. He is also one of the best players on the team, and has been for years. He deserves the “C”.
Definitely Kesler.
You want a gritty guy to be the captain…
Henrik has been a great player, but I just don’t feel he’s got that ‘carry the team on your shoulders’ leadership a captain usually possesses.
Hank for Captain!
obviously henrik sedin! he carried us through the whole sesason!
I believe it will be Handrik just like everyone else it seems. He is a leader and would make a great choice.
Burrows for captain all the way! Took less money to be with the team – a true Canuck!
I say Hank. He’s a lead by example kind of dude.
henrik is an ideal choice, he’s proven his ability to play. and he’s gonna be a great leader despite how soft spoken he can be. kesler in a few years, not now.
I would love to have Kesler as captain but would be happy with either him or one of the Sedin’s
Kesler and Henrik are both great players, but Henrik is the better option for captain. To be captain, you must be respected by the team, other players, the community, and the media. The Canucks respect Henrik on the ice and in the dressing room; other players respect his skill and complete dominance of some games; the community respects him because of his influence in the community (donated 1.5 M to Children’s hospital and volunteers at Canucks Place); the media respects him because he is always polite to them and makes time for them.
Kesler, likewise, is respected as well but not nearly as much in any category as Henrik. Additionally, I feel like a lot of the gritty moves that Kesler does (border-line dirty) is something a great captain should not do. Hence, the captaincy could take away from his game.
Just my two cents. Go Canucks Go!
I think Kelser should be captain. The Canucks need a vocal leader on the ice.
I’ve got to go with my heart on this one – Eddie Lack.
I think Henrik should get it.
I have to go with Kesler.
Henrik Sedin deserves it.
I WANNA WIN THIS FOR MY SONNNN. But obviously this is Hank’s hands down.
Is there really even a competition? obviously its the sedin
Kesler and Henrik would both make great captains.
Henrik has a smooth, calming influence that is a welcomed addition in any pressure situation and locker room, especially when the expectations are so high and coming off an MVP year. On the other hand, Kesler is more outspoken and has the ability to fire up the team on the ice by picking a fight with an opposition’s top player and is excellent on offense and defense.
I’m torn between the two and I will support whoever is named the captain. However, I also wonder if they will decide to go with 3 alternates this year or try a rotating captain system before making a decision.
i think it will be dan”the hammer” hamhuis.
Ironic, that Captain Canuck will be a Swede or an American. Same thing with the Canadiens – American captain and assistant captain plus a Russian assistant captain. That being said, Henrik for the C.
My favourite player is Daniel Sedin, but I think Hank will get the C!
I think Henrik has proved he deserves it. Both of the twins have endured criticisms from day one and yet they (esp Henrik) have risen above and done what no other Canuck has been able to do. He is calm, cool and collected. I admire Kesler’s style of play but perhaps he is too firey to be the captain. I also didn’t care for his behaviour and comments during the Olympics (ie not responding to Luongo’s good luck wishes).
I’ve always thought the captain should be decided by a vote from within. Remove the politics, strip off the personal agendas, silence the outside opinions and let the boys who play the game decide who they want for their leader and support. That being said, with the “C” being selected by the suits I’m betting on #33.
I’m in the minority at this point, but I’d like Kesler to wear the C.
Kessler for Captain.
Goals alone do not make a captain. You need someone that can handle the press, and is willing to speak his mind.
I THINK THE CAPTAIN SHOULD BE HENRIK SEDIN.I THINK HE HAS EARNED IT.
Henrick embodies the Canucks team better than Kesler the newbie. Gooooo Sedins!
Definitely Henrik!!
Gotta be Henrik! he’s so Vancouver that he even says “for sure” in his interviews!
Kesler all the way!
I think the natural choice is Henrik Sedin. The Sedins work incredibly hard and set an amazing example for other players.
Easy! Henrik.
Definitely Henrik Sedin should be the Canucks next captain!! Leads by example and is great off the ice!!
My first thought was one of the twins, but then I couldn’t decide which one. So because I refuse to favour one over the other I think Kesler would be an awesome joke. He would be a fantastic leader and he definitely contributes to the team the way a captain should 🙂 <3
My first thought was one of the twins, but then I couldn’t decide which one. So because I refuse to favour one over the other I think Kesler would be an awesome CHOICE. He would be a fantastic leader and he definitely contributes to the team the way a captain should <3
worst kept secret these days. Henrik Sedin as Captain. I don’t think there is anyone else and I’ll be shocked if he isn’t selected.
I have to admit, the Twins are pure magicians. That being said, this city and team has been defined by grit, hard work, and determination. I believe the Naslund era lacked much of these three characteristics and instead relied more on talent. I think it’s time to get back to the day’s of the 80’s and 90’s with the likes of Stan Smyl & Trevor Linden as captain.
That is why my vote goes to Ryan Kesler to lead this era of the Vancouver Canucks.
I don’t think the answer to this one is going to come from ANYONE who hasn’t been fortunate enough to spend some time in the Canucks locker room during the day.
The guy who should wear the “C” is not only one of the guys that leads by example on the ice night after night, but also the guy who commands an attentive ear and motiviates in the dressing room between every period when Coach V has finished dishing out his two bits worth.
Sure, either of the Sedins could be this guy, but in the end, none of us really know. It’s something that will be glaringly obvious internally, and must be decided from within the Canucks inner circle…
Some say it’s just a letter on a jersey. But a captain is a leader on and off the ice. Kesler is in my opinion, the one who shows passion and determination. He has that capability to rev up the team when it’s needed (AND growl at the reporters if necessary!) My vote is for Ryan Kesler.
This is a tough question. I’d say it’s down to Henrik and Kesler, but if the Canucks go with just ‘A’s for the beginning of the season and see who really steps up, I’d be okay with that.
Have to go with Henrik. I love Kesler but think his actions & comments during the Olympics should be remembered. Regardless of what country he was playing for it was a reflection of his immaturity in my opinion.
Captains need to represent their team and their fans AT ALL TIMES.
Hank has heart (and HART!).
I have been a huge Sedin supporter since they were first drafted. And it’s amazing watching them mature and grow as players. I think Henrik has finally come to a point of his career where he deserves to be captain. He leads by example on the ice. And is truly involved with the community. And although Kesler has a lot of passion, he isn’t, in my opinion, “captain” material yet.
Ryan Kesler is my favourite current Canucks player. He has all the qualities that fans and teammates would want from a captain. He’s known to lead, he plays by example, he wears his heart on his leave, and he plays with passion.
HOWEVER…
How can you NOT name the reigning Hart and Art Ross trophy winner the Captain? Henrik Sedin has done everything to prove his can lead this team, including proving he can play with twin brother Daniel.
While I would obviously be happy if either is named captain, the choice should be Henrik Sedin.
Ryan Kesler!!!Ya Boy!!
I would have said Kesler a year or two ago, but he has turned into a gritty player and they don’t usually make the best captains. This is Henrik and Daniel’s team now, so it only makes sense to go with Henrik.
Kes since the twins work better with less pressure.
Kesler.
Leading the team puts a great deal of pressure on the player selected. I have to figure that Kesler will be better able to shoulder that load without a drop in performance. His game reminds me of another great Canucks Captain who used to wear #16.
Henrik is a brilliant player and I think that having more mental energy to focus on finding the back of the net will benefit the team more than having him rally the troops.
Henrik. He can handle it!
My vote is for Hendrik. Kesler can get too emotional at times.
Ryan Kesler! He sounded like a captain addressing the fans during Open Practice!
I think I’d like to see Daniel get it to balance out the pressure Hendrik will be feeling to repeat last years performance.
Henrik. Kes would be a great Alternate, but Kes chimes up a bit too much. Henrik has the maturity and leadership skills to take the Nucks to the Stanley Cup land.
Henrik. Kes would be a great Alternate, but he chimes up a bit too much. Henrik has the maturity and leadership skills to take the Nucks to the Stanley Cup land.
I honestly think that Mr. Henrik Sedin will be chosen as captain. He’s been playing for so many year for the ‘nucks and I think he has the true qualities of a captain.
I’d like to see Kesler or Henrik to get the position of captain.
Well, since Kyle Wellwood and Shane O’Brien don’t play for us anymore, I’m going to suggest Henrik Sedin.
The captain, without a doubt, should be Kesler.
No offense, but Henrik’s not a captain. Let Henrik keep passing pucks to his brother.
Kelser has the stones to call out players… He called out Luongo during the Olympics!
He’s gritty and leads by example… He’ll take sticks to the face, he’ll get in fights… That’s the kinda guy we need leading the Canucks.
Kesler for Captain!
Ryan Kesler!!
I would like to see Henrik be named Captain. That being said, I think people put far too much importance into which players have letters on their jerseys. Henrik, would make a good choice however. He is very well respected by his teammates, other players, and I would imagine the officials, as he doesn’t have a history of whining with the refs (like Kesler does). He simply keeps his mouth shut and scores.
Henrik Sedin. His time has come. FOR SURE!
how about Sammulsun? he obviously has the temper to lead, and hes not afraid of speaking out!
my vote is for either Kesler or Henrik.
My vote is for Kes. His play and leadership at the Olympics was exceptional. You can’t go wrong with either Kes or Hank IMO.
I think what Vancouver needs as a captain is similar to what Richards brings to Phily as a Captain. Kesler fits that roll perfectly. As good as Henrik is his leadership is shown in his calm, cool lead the team do his thing type way. Kesler however brings energy to the team that the team needs to respect. Canucks worst games are played when they start slow and have no legs. Henrik doesn’t really ever have an energy changing shift. Whereas Kesler can have one shift that can change the energy to the team on a game to game basis. Henrik is great, Daniel is great the team is great. If they play with energy they will be hard to beat. Let Kesler lead the team in that department and as the Captain of the Canucks.
Henrik – ‘nough said
My vote is for Henrik. From what I can see if his current leadership style, it is exactly what an NHL Captain should be. I think that if Kesler were given the C, he might feel pressure to be more of a gentleman on the ice and to set a better (less emotional) example. I don’t think that would be good for his game.
I don’t think the team can go wrong with Hank or Kesler. My personal vote goes to Kes.
Give it to Kesler. He’s got heart, plays with emotion and never takes a shift off.
Henrik Sedin, for sure.
Henrik gets my vote, although Kesler would be a great choice as well. Sometimes the best leaders are your best players and Henrik is just that.
I think Henrik is going to be captain.. hes got the potential and if he does need help he can always ask his bro.
My vote goes to Kesler!!
Henrik has shown that he’s an elite level player, while also maturing into a very well-spoken player in the media, even in pressure situations. I think it’s inevitable that Kesler will become a captain one day, but it’s Henrik’s time right now. Captain H. Sedin, with Alternates D. Sedin and R. Kesler.
It should be henrik, MVP, hart trophy winner, a leader and gets points. he’s a good player to lead a team and is a fantastic player in general. He deserves it
It should be Kesler, he’s gritty, works hard and has lots of charisma.
Henrik all the way! Kesler needs more time to mature and gain respect from the on ice officials.
Hamhuis
Henrik Sedin without a doubt!
My preference is for Kesler, although I think Henrik will get it.
My two cents. Luongo let the captaincy distract him from being the leagues best goalie – not his fault, just the problems of looking after the team can be a distraction. I don’t want to see Henrik distracted from being MVP again – he should just concentrate on doing what he does so obviously well without worrying about team affairs.
Give it to Kes, he’s solid, vocal and a recognisable team player. Then give the A’s to both Hank and Ehrhoff and you’ve got leadership all over the ice. I think Kes would be the kind of steadying presence that will lead us to glory!!
hank
My vote is with Kesler. Not to take anything away from Hank, but I think Kes will be able to handle the pressures that come with captaincy more effectively, and not let it affect his game as much.
I know this has been suggested many times, but I agree with the people who believe it will be Henrik. He knows how to step up and show his leadership on the ice, but he won’t be any more vocal then he is now. This was everyone complaint with Naslund. I believe Henrik is ready. If Daniel would not have been injured last year, he may have been the winner of the Hart Trophey. Then everyone would be saying Daniel should be the captain. If he was selected to be the captain over Henrik, no one should be surprised. He is the finisher and goal scorer.
When Lou lost the C, my first choice was Henrik. With all of his accomplishments last season, he seemed the easy choice. After I saw the open practice however, I realized that Kesler is the best fit for captain.
Not only is he the popular choice among the fans of the team, but he represents everything this team needs to be to win the cup: tenacious, gritty, responsible, and hard working. He speaks what’s on his mind, he lets every team know we mean business, and he never backs down.
Fans loved Pavel Bure because he could score, but they rallied behind Linden because he never gave up. The twins will lead the way on the scoreboard, but I think the city and these Canucks will rally behind Kesler because of his passion and drive to win.
Kesler, ftw!! I just don’t think it’s fair to Daniel, for Hank to get all of this extra attention.
Two time Selke finalist, which means he knows how to play both with and without the puck at both ends of the ice so he can speak to any player on the ice about performance and things to do to make themselves better. He’s very aticulate and honest and tells it like it is in front of the camera so you can only asume he would in the locker room too. He’s charismatic and well liked both by fans and team mates. He takes care of his own business on the ice and pLays with heart and initiative. To me that defines what a Captain is so Ryan Kessler as the new Canucks Captain is a no brainer.
Definitely Henrik Sedin. When you’re the winner of the Art Ross and Hart trophies, you deserve the vacant captaincy position. Being voted the most valuable player in the entire league should earn him the C on his team.
Kesler should get the C.
Dan and Hank with the A’s (to keep things even)
You want a Captain who will speak up and rally the team. Kesler would do that. Plus he has grit, confidence, and skill.
RK is our guy.
My vote’s for Henrik. He has the respect of the teammates, the league and, from what I can gather, the officials.
I think it should be Henerik Sedin.
I believe that kesler shouldn’t get it *YET* he needs to grow a little bit more.
I too think Henrik is logical choice. He is calm and collected under pressure and the Canucks need a cool head and strong hand as leader.
Henrik Sedin will be the next captain of the Canucks
Henrik Sedin, hands down. He’s probably the most consistent player on the team, so the media won’t have as many opportunities to hound him. He has the composure to put this team on his back and carry us to a CUP!!!
I think that Henrik might get the captaincy but I want Kesler to. He’ll have more of an influence on the bench and in the locker room than Hank.
Henrik Sedin. He is a proven scorer, been in the team for a long time, lead by example, has leadership qualities (calm and compose).
Hmmm, tough one this is.
There could be pros and cons for both, but they are the best we’ve got.
I believe Henrik should be the captain. Like the first blogger said, he seems to have a great calming presence and already has a great deal of exp in dealing with the media. It’s obvious he loves this team and city and I think a captain should be respected around the league. Henrik seems to engender this respect but Kesler, not so much…(Just in my opinion…) But whoever the captain, go Canucks!
Kessler has the fire we need to ignite the team when we need it most.
Henrik Sedin, seems like the type of person who would make a great leader. Hard worker, has the respect of his teammates, and doesn’t get rattled under pressure.
I’m thinking the next captain of the Canucks should be Ryan Kesler… I believe the Sedins would make a good fit for the ‘C’ being that they are the face of the franchise, but I believe you have to just let them play. Not be worried about dealing with officials, arguing calls, and everything distracting that can come with holding the ‘C’. Look at Lu, I believe it was a total distraction on him being captain. Kesler plays with heart & emotion, he is a leader and someone the team can look up to. Making Kesler the next captain will free up the twins to do what they do best.
Clearly, Henrik is the correct choice.
Definitely Henrik. Kesler is too immature at times.
I think Henrik Sedin deserves to be captain because he has certainly earned this honour. However, I think Kesler would make a better captain. He possesses the qualities of a leader. Swedish people are incredibly standoffish and don’t always make the best leaders. Yes, I’m aware this is a generalization, but I believe it applies in this case. I think it should be Henrik, but I don’t know if he’d be the best captain, and that’s why Kesler might be chosen instead of him.
My answer: Ryan Kesler.
I reckon it will be Henrik Sedin, but I secretly hope it’s Kesler. I really want to see a heart and soul guy like that, who puts his emotion out there on the ice every single shift, as our captain.
Kesler will have it 🙂
For me, it has to be Kesler. While I think Henrik would be a great Captain, when they are not doing so well he needs to be able to focus on his game. The biggest criticism of the Canucks this season is their lack of grit. I think naming Kesler the Captain is a step toward addressing that.
H. Sedin would be the best choice. We need someone with talent and achievements, passion for the team, and levelheadedness. Kesler would be good, but I think he is too emotional. We saw that H. Sedin actually has emotions and passion last year, when put in a leadership position. I think he is the best choice. Now show me the sweater!
They call him “Hanky”. Henrik should get it, although I could easily support Kesler if it went that way, too.
no shortage of opinion either way on this one!
i don’t think there’s a wrong answer here. Kesler’s play reminds me of a younger Stan Smyl – that edgy toughness. Remember when Smyl lead the team in Goals, Assists, Points and Penalty minutes? that could be Kes.
on the other hand, Henrik reminds me of a Markus Naslund – although not as vocal as Kesler, he leads by example and lets his play do the talking.
both are solid guys in the room, team first guys. there’s no wrong answer.
I don’t believe that you can place one Sedin higher than the other. I think it should be:
C- R. Kesler
A- H. Sedin
A- D. Sedin
As much as I love Henrik, I would give the C to Kesler. Henrik may be calm and collected, but we’ve seen that before. The team needs a captain who isn’t afraid to get gritty and be vocal. Plus, he can still get things done. His linemates keep getting better, and he’s shown he can put up points.
The most elderly of the Canucks is clearly the most fit to be captain: Sami Salo. He will lead by example. If anyone knows how to play through injuries, it must be Sami. He is dependable and durable.
Kesler for C. Having one Sedin for a captain won’t be good for the relationship between the twins. Sedins co-captaincy will create a two-headed monster. Kesler seems mature and outspoken unlike the quiet twins so the leadership role should go to him.
Henrik! I know Kesler can do it but I wanna see Henrik with the C.
“C” is for Kesler. We need a vocal captain who isn’t a stranger to the Gordie Howe hat trick.
Kesler would be my choice for captain. The last couple of years everyone has said we lacked toughness and grit when it mattered. Shouldn’t the captain’s personality reflect this.
Henrik is awesome, but awesome in a quiet way. We need Kesler’s abrasive personality to pick up the rest of the team!
The C should go to Ryan Kesler, the twins already have enough attention to worry about
Next captain has to be Henrik. Both the Sedins have done a lot for the team we have grown up watching them excel and succeed. Kesler’s great but in my opinion Henrik should take it.
Gotta be Henrik. No question.
If the only criteria for being captain was being consistent and great sportsmanship, it would have to be Henrik. I believe that the Captain should possess these qualities but needs the grit and tenacity to stand out. For that reason I think The “C” should go to Kesler
I vote for Henrik. It’s inevitable that people will compare Hank to Markus and jump to conclusions about Hank’s effectiveness as Captain. If anyone had any doubt as to who the leader of the Canucks was that was put to rest when Henrik was the player on the Canucks’ bench that stood up when Shane O’Brien was mouthing off to Rick Bowness. Henrik has the right combination of on ice abilities and media saavy. No matter how much we as fans want to hear the Captain name names, imagine how that would make your workplace if the leader at your company did that. Kesler is too emotional and is better left as an alternate.
id like to see luongo again but hes stepping down (hence this topic lol) so my vote goes to henrik sedin or ehrhoff be nice to see a defenceive captian
Both Kesler and Henrik would make great captains, each in their own way. But we need to take into account what the team needs right now. The context is huge. Let’s consider the situation Luongo was put in and how his captaincy was effecting his game. The added pressure did not help him in any way. The last thing we need in such a hopeful season is Henriks point production to be gimped and for him to get into a slump. On top of that having to answer to the press about that. Kesler isn’t a big point scorer, they will not hold him accountable for any lack of point production. And any added frustration for him can be translated into grittier play.
I’d like to see Kesler get the C – he’s all about the heart and I think he’ll grow 10 ft tall and become bullet-proof with the endorsement. I think giving the C to either of the twins will only add weight that they don’t need (not that either one doesn’t deserve it)
I think it should be Kesler.
I’d vote for Kesler… But I’d be surprised if it wasn’t Henrick…
I’d like to see Hank get it, Kesler is still too much of a hot head when he gets upset (cue the youtube links of him snapping his stick in half on the ice and off from last season) Hank may not be the most vocal, but he does what he does best and what the team needs, someone to lead the way. We saw that when he won the Art Ross and the Hart… so my vote is for Henrik. Hey… if they can have a King Henrik in New York why not Vancouver??
For months now I’ve been saying that Kesler should be the capatin, but now I really think it should be Henrik. Hank became the focus of the franchise last year (rightly so). He leads on the ice and has the respect of his teammates. Kesler would make a great captain, but maybe the ‘C’ may affect his gritty style of play. Hank for captain!
Kesler. He has the heart and passion this team needs in order to push through the tough playoffs. Henrik is a good leader for sure, but is just not vocal enough or tough enough to call out people when required.
Hands down Ryan Kesler 🙂 The determination and heart he shows on and off the ice is the epitome of “Canucks” hockey.
We like hard workers in Van. And Kesler is just that.
I think Burrows should be the captain. He has to fight for every ounce of respect he gets from around the league. He never quits and takes a shift off. He is what it means to be a caunck. Go Canucks Go. Common boys make this the season to remember.
I think Hank is definitely gonna win…just like tsn said this is the worse kept secret!
It should be Hamhuis! As Don Cherry would say “He’s a good ol’ Canadian boy!”
I think it should be Kesler.
Hank sedin all the way!!
I honestly think Henrik is the better alternative. He’s done everything the organization has asked of him, won the most prestigious single player award that no other Canuck had won, and he’s been around longer than Kesler, and frankly, he’s proved more than Ryan. Ryan is a great guy, but most winning captains are classy and modest, such as Joe Sakic, Stevie Y, Crosby, Nidermayer, Lidstrom, etc. At this moment, there is honestly no better choice than Henrik Sedin to take the Canucks Captaincy.
I’d like to see Kesler be our captain. Kesler has that “edge” that we seem to have been missing the last couple years in the playoffs. Kesler always plays with 100%. Also a lot of the more successful teams lately have had young captains like Kesler. Players could include Sidney Crosby, Alexander Ovechkin, Mike Richards and Jonathon Toews. Kesler is the charismatic leader that we need to have.
Hamhuis!
As much as I would love to see a guy like Kesler get the C (because of his gritty play and amount of skill he has to back it up), I truly think that Henrik will be the next Canucks captain. Although Hank isn’t the most vocal player on the team, he has a great role model to every player on the Canucks and has the potential to be a great leader too.
Definitely Kesler.
To be honest, I believe it will be Ryan Kesler.
I think the Captaincy debate here in Vancouver is easily one of the worst kept secrets around (next to 2007’s ottawa senator’s new logo). You look at the things Kes is doing… Hes gritty, he can score, he’s a talented forward, he’s been up for the Selkie trophy 2 years in a row now, he actively talks to the media, and just the other day at the open practice, not only did he lead the stretch at center ice, but he also addressed the crowd in a very “captain-esque” manner. He will Wear the C. No doubt about it.
People tend to think that Henrik would be the best captain. Although he won the Art Ross Award,the Hart Memorial Trophy, the skill and the talent he has a brother , a twin brother. How in the world can you chose between a Sedin ? At the same time, Daniel is a very good player which we cant deny. Therefore, in my opinion , Kesler should get the C on his jersey. He played in the olympics, should leadership as the spokesperson for BcHydro . He is a round player showing assits, goals and fights. In my opinion, Ryan Kesler would be the best captain for the canucks.
I personally believe ryan kesler should be the team captian. if it was possible i would give the “c” to both sedins but you just cant do that, and you cen’t give the “c” to one sedin and not the other so kesler it the only logical choice here.
I agree with the majority that Henrik has shown a willingness to put up with the media, which is a requisite function of the captaincy in Vancouver. If he wants it, he should have it. However, maybe he would prefer to focus on the job at hand, which he does so well. If he turned it down, than Ryan would be my second choice.
I think it’ll be Henrik! 🙂
As much as I love Hank I think Kesler should get it. He shows the drive, ambition and grit that we need to have in our captain. He is young enough that he still has years of amazing play ahead of him and he has not hit his prime. He comes out every game and plays his hardest, gets in people’s faces and the passion he showed in the Olympics would be the passion he would have as our captain.
Henrik Sedin should be the next captain for sure!
It’s hard to overlook a Hart trophy winner.. how many Canucks have done that before? So from the outside, as much as I love Kesler’s heart, it’s Hank.
But really… it doesn’t matter what I think. The team captain needs to have the respect of the team, and be someone who leads without trying. If there’s an emotional head of the team, that’s my captain, and there’s no way anyone on the outside can really know who that is.
I’m thinking it’s gonna be either Hank or Kess. Hank has my vote.
I don’t think there is any competition, Henrik Sedin. He has been with the team since 99′, the league scoring leader, a great role model for all players. When Hank becomes captain I also think that Daniel should be the new alternate. The Sedins together are by far the best brother duo in league history.
i think it will probably be Henrik Sedin but i hope it is Kesler.
Give Kes the C. He reminds me of a former captain (16). Got character, grit, and speaks his mind.
I think Henrik Sedin is the best choice. You want you captain to lead by example, and theres no better example on the Canucks, than Henrik. Kesler is a great leader, but having the captaincy would hinder his style of play. He gets in the opponents face, and plays best when he does that, and being captain wouldnt allow him to keep playing his game. Daniel Sedin is also a good choice, but I wouldnt be surprised to see the Canucks go without a Captain this year. Instead of having one single person in that role, have Henrik, Daniel, Kesler, and Erhoff as a collective group of leaders.
Henrik has led by example every year. He has been a Canuck his entire NHL career, has been great to the city through donations. He was the best player in the NHL last season. It would be hard to give the C to someone else with a player like this on the team. Henrik Sedin for Vancouver Canucks captain.
Henrik Sedin
I’d like to see Kesler get the C but I still feel like he’s a bit immature and has some growing up to do before he can take on a task like that, on the other hand it might just be the push he needs to mature. If I had to pick today I would have to give the C to a proven player like Hank, we may not see it but the quiet confidence he displays is something the other players can build off of. Also, we’ve all heard stories about what kind of teammate he is from the other players so it seems like the logical choice.
Although the consensus picks have been leaning towards career Canucks like Hank and Kesler. I think it might be a good idea to give the C to someone like Dan Hamhuis who’s a veteran, and seems to be calming influence on the back end. He’s someone who will hold the other team’s accountable while being defensively sound. A perfect example of someone to watch and learn from.
While my heart says it should be Ryan Kesler, my head says Henrik Sedin because of his behaviour on ice. While Kesler’s aggravating antics are a positive against opponents, it can rub officials the wrong way and typically isn’t the way I expect a captain to behave on ice. Henrik’s leadership is both spoken on ice/bench and appears to be in the dressing room as well, and has the respect of the opponents, officials and media league wide.
Nick
Henrik Sedin – I definitely think he has the leadership skills both on and off the ice to take this team all the way to the Cup!
Ryan Kesler – He has both the leadership skills, the ability to ignite the team, and he gives his heart out there on the ice every game.
ryan kesler has the leadership skills and work ethic to be a great leader for the canucks
I think Willie Mitchell should be…. wait… what?… ahh $%*@…
seriously though.
Hank is seriously great, no one disputes that. But given not just the added pressure of Captaincy, but the climate in which the barer much carry it. By this I mean, think about how harsh, and lame not just the media, but the FANS too can be too.
Is ,more expectation (which is always extremely high in Vancouver) something we want to give to mr. Sedin? Or would we rather let him be and see if he can help Daniel claim a Hart and an Art Ross so we can’t tell them apart again.
I’d give it to the hardest working, most well rounded player we have in Kesler. He’s been a leader since his rookie year. Last season was something of a coming out year for him attention wise. Any Kesler fan then, already knew just how Intense this guy can be and is. The added pressure is something that will only push his game and character to better levels.
So yeah, Kes is awesome. SO if he doesn’t get the ‘C’ then I say give it to Dave Babych’s moustache.
The Canucks have many leaders on the team. The captain position is more of a figure-head spot then anything else. Both of the twins are getting consistently better, and Henrik’s success makes him well suited to represent the team as captain.
I think Kesler should get it. Hank would be great, but why not let him focus on scoring goals and being an assistant. Kesler has the run and gun, follow the leader kind of attitude that a good captain should have.
My vote is for Kesler, he puts it all out there on the ice which I feel serves well in a leadership position.
Kesler all the way. He has always reminded me of Trevor Linden.
I think it has to be Kes. Markus Naslund is still my all-time favourite Canucks, but this city did not respond well to a quiet, lead-by-example captain. I love Hank, but Ryan will bring the raw energy that the captaincy in Vancouver has been missing since Trev handed it to Messier.
Kesler would see the larger gains as a player than Henrik if he were captain.
Either that or Schneider…
Kesler for sure. He’s North American, which helps, plus he’s got the heart!
I vote for Kesler. We need a more vocal on ice presence and someone who can ignite passion in other players.
I think Hank has earned it, or I wouldlile to see Hank and Daniel as co-captains
Henrik Sedin should be!
I vote for Kesler think he would be a god captain
Henrik Sedin should get the ‘C’ because of his ability to lead by example and as an impact player! Luongo being captain was a nice idea but it really should be a skater as cap. This is coming from a goalie!
I was overjoyed when I heard that Luongo had relinquished the captaincy. From the beginning, Luongo’s captaincy was little more than a marketing stunt. A goalie cannot initiate the play the same way a skater can. A captain should be able to rally the troops through a big hit, a timely goal or even a spirited fight. Those criteria point to Ryan Kesler as being the perfect fit for the C. However, both Sedins have proven themselves to be the very strong candidates as well. They represent class and skill like nobody else.
The problem with Kesler is that as a pesky two-way player, he might subconsciously change his game as captain and no longer be the trash-talking pest we all love. The problem with the Sedins is that they are a little bit too reminiscent of another Swedish player who captained the Canucks during underachieving years not too long ago.
I think it’s important for the team to pick a captain sooner than later, as it will give the team an identity.
Who gets the captaincy depends on what kind of leader the Canucks want. If they’re looking for somebody to lead with grit and determination, Kesler is their man. If they’re looking for somebody to lead with strength and have Hart (yeah, I went there) Henrik will for sure get the job.
Henrik is who I believe should be captain as he has nearly all the qualities of what a captain is, a real leader.
I almost can’t bear to see the Sedins not do something equal though. Perhaps we could have dual-captaincy and confuse the heck out of everyone in the hockey world even more.
I think the new captain should either be one of the Sedins or Kesler. And we still love you Luongo!
+1 for Henrik Sedin.
Why? He’s versatile, durable, talented and humble.
For the last two or three years he’s been the Canucks’ best player (sorry, Luongo fans). He’s never injured and he never, EVER takes a night off. He’s also matured tremendously as a person over the last decade – when he’s interviewed his answers are thoughtful, concise and honest.
As big a Kesler fan as I am, I think it’s Hank’s team to lead right now. Kes will get his chance soon enough.
Kesler
I would give it to Kesler
Kesler over the others
Will miss Luongo. But I’ll pick Henrik
I would say Ryan Kesler should be the next captain of the Canucks. To me, the style Kesler plays somewhat echoes that of ex-captain Trevor Linden around his All-Star years. He is of a good age, as he isn’t too far off of most other players on the fairly young Canucks team, but old enough to gain the respect of the veterans. He is one of the NHL’s best draw-men, and while people were busy watching Henrik Sedin’s production, he put up nearly a point-a-game; an amazing feat for such a strong physical and defensive force. He is very responsible, plays a team game, but can take control in pressure situations. He has won two junior gold medals, and helped the American Olympic team go much further (silver) than their talent level warranted. In my eyes, Ryan Kesler has been the Canucks captain since the slump they hit mid-season. He is the clear choice.
I think Kesler should be named captain. That guy has been with the team for a long time and he’s an all star. He contributes to the team like no other guy. Kesler for the win!
Henrik may be the Canucks’ best player, but your captain shouldn’t be “your best player”. It should be the one who wants the added pressure of leading his team, and it should be no one other than Ryan Kesler. He excels at every aspect of the game and plays with his heart on his sleeve, similar to Flyers’ captain Mike Richards. The Canucks went with Luongo as their captain before, the skilled silent type, and look how that turned out. It would be no different with Henrik leading the way. Plus, after leading the NHL in points last year, it is unlikely to see Henrik repeat the same success, thus adding more pressure. Besides, how can you pick Henrik over Daniel? THEY ARE EXACTLY THE SAME. Here’s what it should be: Kesler captain, Henrik and Daniel assistants.
I would love to see a North American captain but think it will end up being Henrik.
Agree with Zandberg, ‘I don’t get to see what happens in the locker room.’ But either Henrik or Kesler seems like a good choice.
I am not sure sure if anybody has chose the twins but if Richard Loat meant the twins when he said co-captains I’d agree with that. Either that or personally (people might bash on me on this one) but I’d say Daniel, granted he didnt show much leadership this is because IMO, he got injured. If he had the same chance as Henrik, I think Daniel is a little bit more aggressive he can be assertive to the refs, players respect him and most of all referees do too. i do love Kesler but I just dont think he is level headed enough to be captain. Yes we need agressiveness but at the same time we need somebody who can control their temper and be able to speak calmly.
Generally, I would also like to say that C should be chosen by the players and not management.
@KrispyKrisy
I think Henrik should get it. Especially after the Hart.
I’m voting for Henrik too.
Captaincy is not only for on the ice, it’s also for off the ice. Henrik is a great leader on the ice and i bet he leads in the locker room, too. However, Ryan is also a great leader. He knows how to talk to the media, he shows charismatic abilities and is not as soft spoken as Henrik. So i believe Ryan Kesler should be captain. He can bring the energy the team needs and truthfully say things either bad or good, but will also learn from the past games and give leadership that it needs to have the team improve.
I would have loved to seen a co-captiancy. There was the potential to highlight certain players strengths and they could have shouldered some of the media’s captian-is-scapegoat drama together. Hank definitely has the heart and Hart 🙂 but Kesler seems to have that leadership quality. He’s in his prime and has the spunk and energy I’d like to see in the next captian.
First I’ll start off by saying that I love Kesler. But I’d give it to Henrik. Both him and Daniel have grown up within this franchise for a decade and have just reached their prime. They make players around them better (e.g. Alexandre Burrows). Ideally, they’d share the C (hey why not? – the previous one was the goalie), but if I had to choose one, it’d have to be Henrik for the way he was able to stay consistent even when Daniel was out of the lineup.
Henrik will be awarded the captaincy because he deserves it. He gives 110% everytime he’s on and off the ice. He led the scoring race last season and he makes his teammates perform better, Eg: former teammate Anson Carter and now Burrows, Samuelsson, etc. He leads by example and it definitely brings morale to the team. He’s always talking to the referees trying to argue the team’s point when there’s a bad call. He scolded SOB last season for being SOB. Shane was a jerk to one of the assistant coaches but no one put him in his place until Henrik did it for him. Outside the arena he donated huge bucks along with Daniel to the hopital. He makes appearences just about everywhere he’s invited to. Henrik deserves to wear the ‘C’ because he makes the team better and the fans cheer a little harder each time the puck drops.
My vote would go to Kesler. Henrik would better suit the assistant captain title.
Both sides have their points, but I think Kesler just tips the scales.
If the team had a vote, it’d probably go to Henrik. Or you could go with the football theory of captaincy that it should go to a defender. Meaning that a defender faces less media scrutiny when they have a streak of games not scoring, but a forward doesn’t have that luxury.
Kesler should get the ‘C’. Henrik is a star player and hugely respected but he should be allowed to focus on winning games. Kesler is well placed for the role and has the right attitude.
Henrik deserves it. well rounded, superb allstar player
I’d definitely support one of the Sedin’s as the Canucks’ new captain.
I think Kesler should get it, it seems a little unfair to choose henrik over daniel cause of last season
i think that kesler should be the captain; he is the kind of guy that fits the captain role. though hank won the hart,kesler still contributed immensely to the effort. without a guy like kesler, the depth of the canucks wouldn’t be close to what it is now.
kesler ftw
Hank deserves it, although Kesler is a close second. Both have tremendous skill and leadership abiliy.
Let Henrik focus continue performing on the ice like he did last season and give the “C” to Kesler. He’s got more edge.
Henrik. Last year when he was close to being top on the points chart everyone rallied behind him to get him more points. If the guys respect him enough to give him more chances and give up chances to make themselves look good, then they’d obviously respect him as a captain.
While I like Kesler and think he’s a great player, he is known for agitating and diving which I don’t think are very becoming of a captain. Henrik is well respected by everyone in the league – when he speaks, people will listen.
I think Henrik 🙂
I love Kesler, he’s an excellent two-way hockey player, definately a leader in the Canuck dressing room, I’m sure. However, I find him to be moody and not always mature with the press. I just don’t think Kesler is ready for the “C” yet. I think Henrik would make a better captain, he’s got leadership, skill, and class.
Anyone that can top Ovechkin and Crosby for the Hart Trophy should clearly qualify to lead the Canucks onto the ice when the Canucks open their 40th season tomorrow nite against the LA Kings.
In my opinion…..Hank is our Man for many years to come !
I think it is Henrik. Out of everyone on the team he will be a good captian to lead the team to victory 🙂
Defintely Kesler! Captaincy will help Kesker to improve but might slow Hank down
You want a Stanley Cup, you need a Canadian Captain! It’s just statistics, so honest my vote goes to Burrows! You go Alex!
Definitely Henrik!!
I want to go with Henrik for the sake of what he did last year…but I think Kes would make a better captain. 75 points is extremely respectable and as other Canucks players have pointed out, Henrik and Daniel seem to do just fine not saying a word in the locker room. Kes might have a bit more presence. That being said I have the utmost respect for Hank.
Kesler, hes definitely gone a long way and has leadership qualities.
I’m going with Henrik :)he works hard, is a team player and is a fantastic role model.
Henrik Sedin – Woot Woot Hockey is back in VanCity. Can feel the excitement. Guud luck everyone. #GoCanucksGo
I’d have to say Hank.
I’m putting my money down on Ryan Kesler for the new Canucks Captian.
I’m pretty sure(?) we’re going to see Henrik named the captain, tonight. Seems to be the logical choice considering the year he had last year. Kesler might be your a-typical captain on the ice, but I don’t see him as “that guy” who is going to answer all your questions after games in the dressing room. He’s still young and I can see him being a captain sometime in the future. It’s Hanks time, right now!
While I would really love to see Kess with the “C” I do feel it will go to Henrik. Either player will wear it proudly and will represent the Canucks as a leader both on and off the ice. Go Canucks Go!
At the end of the day, this team has no shortage of leadership in the dressing room, and wearing the C will mainly entail media relations and being the “face” to represent the franchise. Hank and Kesler are the forerunners, two veteran Canucks who play hard and are without a doubt,leaders in their own right. But due to his great performance last season- setting a franchise record and being the first Canuck to receive the Art Ross and/or Hart Trophy I have to support Hank as the next captain of these Vancouver Canucks.
I hope it’s Hank, he plays with “Hart” and is great with the media. I like Kesler as a player but he’s a little too hot headed.
Kessler is going to get it.
Kes isn’t mature enough to have the “C”, with comments like “Tell Kelly I said hi” or the way he handled the Andrew Ladd incident it’s plain to see he lets childishness blind his better judgement.
It should be Hank, he’s calm, he’s accomplished, he’s respected, and with his generosity he’s done more for this community than Kesler ever has, or ever will.
People who say a Swede can’t win cups, need look no further than Lidstrom, and those who preach that and ask for Kesler should know only one American has captained a cup as well.
Hank is man for the job!
As I take the train home today my thoughts are on tonites home opener. I really feel Kesler should get the C. He’s gritty, outspoken and has a passion for winning which he wears on his sleeve. This can be good and bad. Let’s be honest though…Henrik will most likely get it. Does so much in the community, our leading scorer and overall nice guy. Can’t we have 2 captains instead of Assistants?
While I’d like to see Kesler with the C I think naming him the captain will cause him not doing his agitator job as effectively. I think Henrik would be a good captain considering the year he had last season. I’m just hoping those people who critiqued Nazzy about his soft spoken personality won’t start phoning in TEAM1040 complaining about the same thing if the Canucks indeed name Henrik the captain.
I think Hamhuis would be an excellent choice too but it’d be odd naming a free agent acquisition your captain.
Sedin for sure- great work ethic on and off the ice! Working inthe community!
Kesler!
Kesler – he’d be a good ‘front man’ for the Canucks.
Henrik! 🙂
Henrik Sedin.
Hank all the way!! No offense to Keskler and fans, I personally find Hank more composed yet we know Kesler has the grit and fire; both have the passion and the drive but chalk it up to Hank for the accolades last season, proven leader soft or loud spoken, the team listens to him and he listens to the team. Hank is Canucks.
Ryan Kesler should be #Canucks captain becuz of his character and drive. Henrik will be chosen instead as fan favorite #vancouver #nhl
Although Henrik is a great choice and will lead the team well I was hoping for Ryan Kesler.
Henrik can do the job as leadership is well represented here. Go Canucks Go!
I’m very happy with the decision made.
Henrik is the captain I was hoping for. Go, go, go!
Great choice! I think it was an easy decision for them!
I knew it would be Hank!!
I think it’s a great decision. He’s consistent and a leader. Nice choice! Go Canucks Go!
Given that we’re celebrating the Canucks 40th anniversay, and that the team has is first ever Art Ross and Hart Trophy winner, Henrik is the perfect choice for captain. He displays a quiet but commanding confidence and leads by example every night. He doesn’t like to make excuses and is forthcoming in his comments, and doesnt shun the media before or after a game. He is an inspiration to his teammates and will prove to be an effective captain!
I think it’s a great way to start the season, go ‘nucks!
So happy Henrik got the ‘C’. I feel he will lead the team to the finals and hopefully, the Cup. With my husband being Swedish/Finnish and us having twins, I’ve been cheering them on all the way. Good luck Canucks!!!!