Six NHL teams without a captain entering the 2024-25 season
The NHL has a way of honoring players who show leadership on and off the ice. They also show the team and franchise who tehy want to lead this team in crucial times and and through difficult playoff runs. Teams do this by naming a captain, a player who can do it all and have a voice in the locker room. However, it is not always a star player and can be any player on the roster who exemplifies leadership qualities with work ethic. While many team already have captains for the upcoming season, there are currently six teams who still have yet to name one. Those teams are the Anaheim Ducks, Buffalo Sabres, Seattle Kraken, Tampa Bay Lightning, the Utah Hockey Club, and the Chicago Blackhawks.
Players who could be named captains on each NHL team without a captain
Anaheim Ducks
The Anaheim Ducks have not had a captain since the 2021-22 season when it was Ryan Getzlaf who wore the "C". He wore the letter for many seasons and represented the franchise proudly. Since that season, the Ducks have not had a captain, but assistant captains. They are searching for their ninth captain in franchise history, and there are three players who dispaly leadership qualities to be given that honor.
Mason McTavish
Forward Mason McTavish is a young player who has been consistent in his play since his NHL debut. He is vocal, leads by example, and gives 110% every shift. It is not often that someone this young is given this kind of responsibility, but McTavish is exactly the -layer Anaheim wants as a captain to lead this team.
Cam Fowler
Defenseman Cam Fowler has been with the Anaheim organization since the 2010-11 seasson and has demonstrated excellence on the ice every season he has played. He has seen it all in Anaheim, but has played well and has shown leadership qualities on and off the ice. A player who could set a good example with a "C" on his jersey.
Troy Terry
The main offensive contributor, Troy Terry's ability to lead this team has been outstanding in his tenure with the franchise. His contributions on and off the ice have been well documented and he leads by example. His dedication to this team is noticed and can be a great captain.