Ottawa Senators Need A New Captain

This year, the Ottawa Senators will face a challenge that is far mightiest than the most ruthless of hockey teams; the loss of their guiding star, Jason Spezza.

Not only are the Senators still rearing from a catastrophic season wrought with poor performances and flawed organization (the Sens finished 5^th in the Atlantic division and 21^st overall last season), but now the team can add the absence of their greatest player to its list of woes. Spezza, who was selected second overall in the 2001 NHL Entry Draft, opted to end his time with the Sens this year, and was traded to the Dallas Stars this past summer. For many, Spezza was the heart and soul of the Senators, and his absence leaves the team with a colossal void that the Sens may not be able to fill.

Still, while the Senators have been cursed with some major departures this season, they’ve only been graced by some impressive acquisitions, such as Alex Chaisson and David Legwand.

Meanwhile, the search for a new captain begins! With his consistent performances and unquestionable talent, Erik Karlsson seems like the most likely candidate. Karlsson compensates for the lack of star power, and has wowed the league with his honed skills. However, forwards Chris Neil and Clarke MacArthur, as well as defenceman Chris Phillips, are all worthy candidates to lead the team to victory.

The Ottawa Senators pre-season will begin on September 22^nd, and come to a close on October 4^th. The Sens will commence their regular season on October 9^th at Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena, and will experience their first home game on October 16^th against the Colorado Avalanche.

Will you be watching?