There is no glaringly obvious candidate, and Backlund is the closest to that. I have zero issues with his trade request - I don't think there is a need to overthink it. Gaudreau left, and Tkachuk made his demands known. Backlund made his request too. Then Tkachuk trade happened, and we all thought that the Flames were better - and Backlund rescinded it. I took his words at face-value during the garbage day presser - wants to in a cup before he retires, and prefers to to that here, but he is not sure about re-signing here as he has only a few years left in his career. That's fair. Wants to win a cup - that's what I want in a captain.
There is no obviously blatant candidate like Iginla was when he took the mantle from Conroy. Giordano was perhaps not as obvious of a candidate, but he certainly did fill those shoes incredibly well. I think Backlund could do the same, but for a shorter time.
I like the shorter time too - gives time for someone to show themselves as the blatantly obvious leader between now and when Backlund retires. Maybe it is an existing player that either needs more time on the team (Weegar), or a bit more time developing/maturing (Andersson), or time to get that weight off his shoulders and start breathing again (Huberdeau), or someone else.
Tanev would make a great choice, but how many more years is he here for? My first place vote goes to Backlund, and then it goes to Lindholm.
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