O Captain! My Captain! The Future of the Letter

With the off-season re-structuring underway, many things are unclear regarding next year's rosters. How about we toss another wrench into the system?

While the captain designation means little to some, it's everything and then some in the locker room. A team is represented by a leader in all facets of operation. Besides being a team leader on the ice, the captain leads his team under public eye.

A captain must lead as not only a role model, but also serve as a rallying point when facing adversity. The heart one plays with can't be found bigger than in your team captain.

Take a look at five players who should serve as captains next season, whether it may be through on-ice production or off-ice stoicism. The NHL captain is a rare breed and at that we look into who shall don the "C" in 2010.

T.J. Oshie

In 2008, Tyler Oshie broke into the league as a unique prospect for the St. Louis Blues. After forgoing his senior year at the University of North Dakota, Oshie was an immediate impact player.

By bringing his energetic style of play to St. Louis, he has provided a much needed spark on offense and defense. This past year he amassed 48 points and averaged the most ice time of any forward on the Blues.

Ryan Getzlaf

Ryan Getzlaf, forward for the Anaheim Ducks, provided one thing in a down year: Consistency. The "pass-first" mentality led Getzlaf to register 50 assists over the season.

Besides being a leader in Anaheim, he also was called upon to serve on Team Canada during the Olympics. On and off the ice, Getzlaf has displayed a "lead by example" demeanor. He displays great puck control with added size. Naturally being a grinder, he makes a defender's night tiring.

Steven Stamkos

A 2008 Entry Draft pick, Steven Stamkos has become a point producing machine. At the age of 20, he led the Tampa Bay Lightning with 95 points, including 51 goals.

Stamkos is the future of the Tampa Bay Lightning and a leader in the making. With an amazing skating ability and premier hand/eye coordination, it isn't a surprise seeing Stamkos succeed at this rate.

Drew Doughty

At the fresh age of 20 years old, Drew Doughty, has had a very successful career. This season he was nominated as a Norris Award finalist. This award designates the top defenseman in the NHL.

Doughty has helped lead Team Canada to the Olympic Gold and a silver in the 2009 Men's World Ice Hockey Championships. Displaying the ability to carry the puck creates for a unique threat and adds a uncharacteristic dimension to the Los Angeles Kings organization.

Zach Parise

Zach Parise served as the alternative captain this season for the New Jersey Devils. While continuing to be a positive role model in the Newark area, Zach contributed as the leader in goals and assists over the year.

Parise has an array of weapons on the ice. He shows leadership beyond his years and his will to succeed is second to none.