The news shouldn’t come as much of a surprise, but Connor McDavid has been named as the captain of Team North America at the World Cup of Hockey.
Both head coach Todd McLellan and McDavid had been asked about the possibility of the young phenom wearing the ‘C’ for the youthful squad, and both were careful not to tip their hands.
On Thursday, the official announcement was made just over an hour before McDavid and Team North America played Team Europe in a pre-tournament exhibition game.
Philadelphia Flyers forward Sean Couturier and Florida Panthers defenceman Aaron Ekblad were named alternate captains.
“On a team full of future NHL captains, we have a strong leadership group on Team North America,” said McLellan in a statement.
“In particular, these three players — Connor, Sean and Aaron — have identified themselves in camp as key leaders for our team. They will be assisted by their teammates to ensure the full group is working together towards our goal of having success in the World Cup of Hockey.”
Now, will McDavid be named captain of the Edmonton Oilers? We’ll soon find out.
Related:
Wearing the ‘C’ for Team North America could be a ‘good trial run,’ says McDavid
