Just thought I'd see who you guys thought would best represent the "C" on the Maple Leafs with Sundin gone, either on a short-term basis, or long-term should he decide to sign elsewhere.
My Vote: McCabe.
First off, the guy is full of class. He has and always will be a symbol of the best of times in Leaf land, with his everlasting passion and love for the game. In fact, he's shown more heart than the rest of this Leafs team, minus Sundin, combined.
Before any crude jokes get made, let me say that the mistakes he makes come from trying too hard, as opposed to not trying hard enough.
Every night, he plays like he's got the world on his shoulders (all that pressure from the fans + media), he plays to a chorus of boos, yet always seems to go out and give 110%. Everytime the Leafs lose, you can see that it really pains him, because he's a warrior and he's got pride.
Lastly, has anyone else ever noticed that when something goes wrong with the Leafs, i.e. a third period collapse, everyone is quick to shy away from the media? Only Sundin and McCabe always seem to be available for comment and offer the professionalism that is expected of them, such as positive comments and accountability.
Accountability... that's a big word, and one that far too-often doesn't seem to be in the vocabulary of MLSE. It's the GM's fault... it's the coach's fault... it's some player's fault... it's the road trip... it's the injuries... it's the schedule... it's the refs!
One of the moments that made me really respect 'Caber was on the disastrous night of the OT loss in Buffalo, where he infamously put the puck in his own net. Yet once again, as could be expected, who came forward to face the media, but a red-faced and torn McCabe? Not only as a hockey player, but as a veteran leader of a group of young men, he stepped forward, willing to shoulder all of the blame for his mistakes. An important lesson should be learned from such a class act by Bryan.
So what's the bottom line? McCabe: Great guy, good player, bad contract. Caber for the C!
If Sundin gets traded, there should be no captain until next season and should Sundin return in the offseason, he will reclaim the C. If not then it would go to McCabe. Not because he would make a good captain, but because he is the best choice of the rest.
I'd say wait until next year before appointing a new Captain. Like Philly did this year.
I'd appoint another alternate captain in the interim and save the C for Sundin's off-season return. If he decides he likes where the grass is greener, McCabe seems the prime candidate.
Excellent idea Alec!I was thinking more along the lines of a permanent Sundin departure as well, though I suppose that wasn't reflected as well in my blog.I will say that Toronto needs more players like McCabe. Players whose effort and passion exceed their talent. The Leafs are a very talented bunch, but on many nights, they are deader than Donald Trump's hair!
If the Leafs trade Sundin, it's announcing that they are rebuilding. Having a full time captain at that point makes no real sense, especially since guys who might be good candidates, might be traded away themselves. Best solution is what Alec suggested, go with 3 A's, or even rotate the C monthly, like Minnesota and Buffalo do.
antropov for C!
McCabe would be appreciated alot more if he wasn't making as much as he is
I say Gill, he scored a goal this year. GM and president also.
Wozniewski. How can you look past his incredible leadership skills?
i asked the same same question and gave the same answer on my blog-- check it out type in trade rumourz and possibilities and stuff-- ahahgreaty blog