Who Will Wear the "C" Next Season? The Islanders Top 5 Options

Hello everyone!

Since the retirement of former captain Doug Weight in May, the Islanders have been left without a captain. Since (and even before) his retirement, there has been a lot of speculation as to who will get to wear that prestigious "C" on the front of their jersey. So, I'm going to count down the top 5 candidates who may become our 2011-12 Islanders captain.

5. Matt Moulson
A longshot, I know. Many people don't really think of him when trying to envision who our next captain will be, but in my opinion, he was what it takes. Since coming to the Islanders, Moulson has been a strong leader. He's scored 30+ goals for two consecutive seasons, and is a fantastic play maker. If not captain, I do see an "A" in Moulson's future.

4. Frans Nielsen
Another strong offensive leader on the Islanders. As a matter a fact, a leader in many aspects of the game. I feel as though many of the young Islanders could learn a lot from his offensive strategies and talents, making him another strong contender for captaincy.

3. John Tavares
This one isn't exactly a shocker. In his two seasons on the New York Islanders, Tavares has definitely proved himself as one of the most talented young players in the NHL. He's shown much offensive skill, and leadership in his short time on the team. Upon getting an "A" stitched on his jersey for a few games, Tavares has proved that he can fill the shoes of a captain.

2. Kyle Okposo
Okposo is a very, very skilled forward, and as an alternate captain, he has proved himself a lot. Though missing about half of last season due to injury, he came back strong. In interviews, Okposo is often quoting former captain Doug Weight, and speaking of what he has been taught by Weight, making him a frontrunner in the race to be captain.


1. Mark Streit
Considerably the most obvious option for the captain position. He's an alternate captain on the Islanders, and the captain of the Swiss National Team. Not only can he teach the young players his defensive skills, the young players can also feed from his offensive abilities, because he is a swingman (a player that can play both offense and defense). He is an impeccable leader on the ice, and would be a great captain for the team, if given the opportunity.

Who do you think the captain will be next season? Leave you comments!