Dahlin and Tuch are likely leading candidates to replace departed Okposo
The Buffalo Sabres will have a number of key decisions to make after another disappointing outcome this season, but one that could have long-lasting effects will be the choice of the next team captain.
The club had stability in their leadership under Kyle Okposo for the last two seasons, but with the 35-year-old being dealt to Florida at the trade deadline, and the longest-standing Sabre in Zemgus Girgensons an unrestricted free agent this summer, the Sabres are likely looking for one of their young core players to take up the mantle of leadership for the next several seasons.
In his Rink Fries column, Sportsnet’s Jeff Marek ponders whether Sabres defenseman Rasmus Dahlin will be the next captain. The 24-year-old blueliner signed an eight-year, $88 million contract extension at the start of the season, is well-established as one of the best offensive defensemen in the NHL.
Head coach Don Granato has often been effusive in his praise of Dahlin and his leadership abilities on the ice, but it is unknown whether the six-year veteran wants to be captain and all that title demands.
The logical alternative as a potential captain is winger Alex Tuch. The 27-year-old was enthused to join the Sabres after being acquired in the Jack Eichel deal in November 2021 and leads the club with 59 points this season. With the departure of Okposo, the Syracuse, NY native has been more than willing to be the player to talk to the media after losses and express the collective feelings of the club.
Is it best for an organization for the best player to also be the team captain? In Colorado and Toronto, Gabriel Landeskog and John Tavares wear the “C” instead of Nathan MacKinnon and Auston Matthews. In Edmonton, they gave it to Connor McDavid. There is no way to know what the right choice will be, but at some point before next season, the Sabres will probably name someone their new captain.
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