John Tavares Named Captain

This afternoon, John Tavares was named the fourteenth Captain of your New York Islanders.  Tavares said, "I take this with great responsibility. It's not an easy thing but I don't think too much will change; goal remains the same."

Per islanders.nhl.com, Isles General Manager, Garth Snow had this to say about Tavares, “John has developed into an elite player in this league and become the leader of our franchise both on and off the ice,” Snow said. “He consistently represents our organization with class and respect. John’s work ethic and determination inspires his teammates to succeed, which makes him the perfect choice to lead our franchise.”

Tavares was third in the NHL with 28 and 19 for 47pts in 48 games in the 2012-13 lock-out shortened regular season. Tavares was recognized for his leadership and contributions to his team when he was announced as a finalist for the Hart Memorial Trophy, given to the league MVP.  The biggest team accomplishment for the season was making the playoffs for the first time since 2007.  Tavares lead the Isles with 5 points in six games of the Eastern Conference Quarterfinal vs. Pittsburgh.

With international success playing for team Canada at the junior level, Tavares won back to back gold medals in 08' & 09' and was named "MVP" in 09.  He is among the tournaments top goal scorers and will get a chance to play for the Team Canada in the upcoming Sochi Olympics.  In 291 career NHL games, Tavares  has 112 and 137 for 249 pts. for the Islanders.  Per Arthur Staple, Tavares thanked two former Isles captains who helped guide him -- Doug Weight and Mark Streit. "Two guys that mean a lot to me."

Per islanders.nhl.com, Tavares had this to say, “I’m honored to be named captain of the New York Islanders, to represent my teammates, coaches, management and the incredible fans that support this historic franchise is something that I take seriously."  He continued, "My experiences over the past four seasons have prepared me for this responsibility and I look forward to the challenge of leading the Islanders each season as we contend for the Stanley Cup.”

There are several good players on the Islanders roster with strong leadership potential.  As for the Captaincy, there was only ever one choice for this team after the position was vacated.  Simply, the New York Islanders will go as John Tavares will go.  As his supporting cast improves, so will his ability to push for more and more as an elite player in the NHL.  Your New York Islanders already look to him for leadership and now, John Tavares has the spotlight right where he wants it.  On him.  Tavares will continue to step up and own the responsibility of his new role.  A role he has played his whole life, even among older team mates.  Tavares is a winner. And if he has anything to do with it, the Islanders will be as well.

Per Arthur Staple, on his team, Tavares said, "There's a misperception about the Isles.  A lot of that is changing."

Isles Notes:

Per Greg Picker, " Tavares is the first Isles captain drafted by the team since Bryan McCabe ('97-98)."

Per Arthur Staple, Seems likely D Radek Martinek will come to Isles camp on PTO.  Brad Boyes apparently choosing between Isles and one other team."  Garth Snow mentioned Martinek and Boyes could be back at the summer meeting of the Isles Booster Club.   

Per EyeOnHockey, "NHL Rumors: With Clemmensen out, Panthers looking for goalie. Rick Dipietro's name has been mentioned."

Per Ansar Khan, "Chris Osgood joins Fox Sports Detroit as game and studio analyst for 2013-14 season."

Per Newsday, Coliseum plan goes to lawmakers for vote on Sept. 23.