Claude Giroux Named Next Captain of the Flyers

Multiple reports this afternoon suggested that (surprise!) the Philadelphia Flyers would name Claude Giroux the 19th captain in franchise history.

After a few hours, though, the organization decided not to continue hiding the worst kept secret and made the news official.

From a PR perspective, it’s the only obvious move. Giroux was ranked #3 on TSN’s top 50 NHL players list for the 2013 NHL season and trails just behind Sidney Crosby in popularity.

Around this time last year, I laid out all my concerns with the idea of Giroux potentially being named captain.

In reality, the title doesn’t really mean all that much to the team, as long as there are vocal and active leaders in the locker room. The Flyers have patterned many of their signings and draftings on players who exemplify strong character, and there’s no shortage of players on the team who will speak up when necessary.

The title tends to be more important to the fans and the media. As for the media, I don’t anticipate Giroux having the same difficulties that Mike Richards had. He tends to be more outspoken as it is and has probably learned first hand through Richards who best to approach those fishing for a story.

The only caveat I still have is whether Giroux has learned from his mistake at the end of last season. If you recall, he was suspended for one game of the playoffs after taking his frustration against the officials out on the face of Dainius Zubrus.

As captain, it is his responsibility to be a leader both on and off the ice, and that means keeping his emotions in check when the season is on the line. He is also the main ambassador between the team and the officials, and maintaining a healthy and professional decorum with them will go a long way for the team down the road.

I wonder how many fans will have time to patch the “C” onto their jerseys before Saturday?