Canadiens Captaincy Can Go In Three Different Directions

In their 113 seasons of existence (104 in the NHL), the Montreal Canadiens have had 28 captains. Their most recent, Shea Weber, who donned the “C” for three seasons won’t go down as the greatest captain in Canadiens history, but will definitely command the respect of anyone who utters his name in a conversation.

This season the Habs have decided not to have a captain and will name one for the 2022-23 season. Shea Weber is all but retired as he will sit out the rest of his contract on the LTIR and has been all but relieved of any duty with the Montreal Canadiens, which would explain his complete silence towards fans and media since the beginning of the season.

Nick Suzuki, Paul Byron, Joel Edmundson and Brendan Gallagher are part the “A” club this season effectively being the core leadership of the club. Jeff Petry serves as a 5th alternate but on road games only as his role on and off the ice have diminished what with his pending trade request and all.

Regardless of who wore the “C” in the past, good or not, the responsibility of being captain of the Montreal Canadiens amps up the already crushing pressure of playing in such a passionate market. The same can be said of any Original Six team as you don’t just represent your teammates, you represent every player who has worn the jersey. You represent every fan of the team and are the first one with the microphone shoved in your face whether you win or lose.

The question of who will be the next Canadiens captain is not a clear cut answer, even if there is a favorite amongst the fans. The choosing of the next captain will likely depend on how the team will vote.

Let’s take a look at the three best candidates for the job.