14 months after the departure of Saku Koivu, the Montreal Canadiens chose Brian Gionta to be their new team captain.

Gionta becomes the 28th captain in the club's history.

The choice of Gionta as team captain did not catch anyone by surprise; the subject was covered by the media a couple of days ago, as it was treated as a rumor at the time.

The whole process probably allowed the team to evaluate the fan reaction to the rumor.

The majority of the players interviewed yesterday seemed to be pleased with Gionta's nomination. At 31 years old, Gionta has the experience to bear the responsibility and represents solid leadership in the locker room.

When asked about his first impressions, Gionta said that he was honored to wear the ''C'' and is proud to be a part of the rich history of the team.

Defensemen Andrei Markov and Hal Gill will both wear the ''A'' and will assist Gionta. Both Markov and Gill were serious candidates to become team captain.