Is Clayton Keller primed to take over the C for Utah when next season starts?
Ever since Clayton Keller was drafted seventh in the 2016 NHL Draft, he has been seen as the face of the franchise in both Arizona and Utah.
The only unfortunate part of his seven-year career so far is the instability around him.
Keller has probably seen plenty of talent traded away and plenty come in, only for it to look like something that was thrown together at the last minute, hoping it stuck.
With Andre Tourigny now firmly at the helm for the next few years, though, and finally a stable ownership group that is committed to the franchise's success (no matter how frustratingly slow it is), Keller finally has a chance to settle into his role as a star player.
Does the next step mean taking on the role of captain?
A recent episode of "Locked On NHL in Utah" discussed that possibility, even as trade rumors swirl around the 25-year old Missouri native's head.
To give Keller the "C" full-time would show the franchise's commitment to build around him for the foreseeable future, along with putting their unfailing trust in his skills and leadership.
No doubt if Keller becomes captain, he would pick players much senior to him, like Alex Kerfoot or Nick Bjugstad, should Utah decide to keep both, as alternates.
It would also mean the Smiths, general manager Bill Armstrong, and alternate governor Chris Armstrong would have to dive deep into the free-agent pool and snag some experienced veterans to help solidify the squad.
But let's be honest: "Captain Keller" has a great ring to it.
The only question is will it happen?
[embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FozM64a1wjo[/embed]