The Obvious Choice: T.J. Oshie
T.J. Oshie, just like Johnson, is from Washington. He has a bit more star power and experience than Johnson as well. Oshie is best known for his infamous performance against Russia during the 2014 Winter Olympics, during which Oshie led Team USA to a win over Russia in a shootout.
Oshie propelled that moment into a successful NHL career. He’s consistently been among the best forwards in the league. Oshie helped the Washington Capitals win the Stanley Cup in 2018. He’s not only a very skilled forward, he’s also an extremely hard worker and has outstanding character, which is something you want from a captain.
Though Oshie has never served as a captain in the NHL, he has served as an alternate captain for several years. His voice is one that is highly respected in the Capitals locker room and around the league.
So why would the Capitals possibly let the Kraken get him? Well, it’s because Oshie’s contract is a bit long and the stagnant salary cap will likely force the Caps to move out a big contract. That contract could be Oshie’s.
There would be a bit of risk in picking Oshie. He has a history of concussions and his relentless style of play leads to injuries. But his style of play is exactly what the Kraken should want out of their players. They’ll have good players, but they won’t have enough skill to win based solely on skill. You need to have guys who play like Oshie. Oshie would be the perfect first captain for the Kraken. It’s a role he’d thrive in.