For The 500th Time, Name A Captain!

Last summer, I published an article expressing my opinion that Jack Johnson should be captain. Over the course of this season, I incorporated Brandon Dubinsky into that discussion. But at this point, all I want is a captain. And to find my reasoning, you need look no further than this weekend’s games.

Mar 21, 2014; Columbus, OH, USA; Columbus Blue Jackets Ryan Jahansen (19) hits

(27) in the face during the third period of the game at Nationwide Arena. Mandatory Credit: Rob Leifheit-USA TODAY Sports

Particularly obvious in the game against the Islanders, this team lacks, more than anything, someone at the helm. Someone to fire up the troops and who is a clear cut leader. JJ and Dubi have tried, but neither of them are quite taking the reins. So let’s show some faith in one of them and sew a “C” on one of their jerseys. Maybe that’s all they need.

After all, sometimes all it takes is a little push. And this little push of naming a captain would lead to someone being able to motivate the rest of the team, which inevitably would lead to wins. And anyone who saw the game on Long Island will agree that this team desperately needs motivation, as if the playoffs aren’t enough.

Mar 3, 2014; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Columbus Blue Jackets defenseman Jack Johnson (7) during the pre game warm up against the Toronto Maple Leafs at the Air Canada Centre. Mandatory Credit: John E. Sokolowski-USA TODAY Sports

The lack of performance as of late is frustrating, namely due to the inconvenience of having the playoffs start in just 23 days. It’s clear that the team has the necessary talent, but it’s the intangibles they need. Let’s look at a team like Chicago.

Jan 26, 2013; Columbus, OH, USA; Chicago Blackhawks center

(19) and Columbus Blue Jackets center

(22) battle for the puck during the first period at Nationwide Arena. Chicago defeated Columbus 3-2. Mandatory Credit: Russell LaBounty-USA TODAY Sports

It’s 2009. Chicago has more talent than ever before, and finally it’s time for one Jonathan Toews to take his place at the helm. Nicknamed “Captain Serious”, it’s his work-first, no-BS demeanor that gets the most attention. But if you’ll notice, his leadership is incredibly effective. From 2000-2009, the Blackhawks weren’t much of a team. Since Toews became captain, they’ve won 2 Stanley Cups in 4 years. I’d call that production.

All I’m saying is if the playoffs aren’t motivation enough, it’s time to designate someone as the clear leader and let them step up to the plate. It’s time to stop “just missing” the playoffs. Let’s name a leader, and march to the cup.