New York Islanders: 5 Players Who Could Become the Next Captain

If there's one thing that stood out during this past season, it's that the new era of New York Islanders hockey has finally arrived on Long Island.

The organization has exhibited a knack for finding quality players, whether it be the ones they've drafted (Tavares, Okposo, Comeau, Nielsen, Hamonic) or those they've plucked from the market (Moulson, Streit, Grabner, Parenteau). Each of these guys has his own set of strengths and talents.

Garth Snow's mission was to build a lineup with character and has done just that.

These Isles certainly have "grit, character and heart," which was the team's credo in 2007-2008.

However, there is another trait which is possessed by more than a few players in that locker room, and that's leadership.

With Doug Weight pondering retirement, the Islanders need to usher in the new age by naming a new team captain. 

This may appear to be a relatively easy decision, but the reality is, there's much more that goes into anointing a new "king of the locker room" than you might think.

Their choice has to reflect the team's identity and best symbolize what these Islanders are all about.

Here are five guys who could fit the bill.

Honorable Mention: Zenon Konopka

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UNIONDALE, NY - DECEMBER 02: Zenon Konopka #28 of the New York Islanders skates against the New York Rangers at the Nassau Coliseum on December 2, 2010 in Uniondale, New York. (Photo by Bruce Bennett/Getty Images)

Konopka really does bleed orange and blue.

He is easily the most vocal player in that locker room and is never afraid to speak his mind, whether it be in defense of a teammate's actions or out of disappointment for the lack of respect the Isles get around the NHL.

He hits, fights, wins key face-offs and gives his very best every night.

The problem is, he may not be back next season, as he becomes an unrestricted free agent on July 1.

He's the ideal choice (in my book) to wear the "C" in 2011-2012, but it will be Garth Snow's decision to either bring Konopka into the fold or let him go.

No. 5: Andrew MacDonald

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UNIONDALE, NY - MARCH 24: Andrew Ladd #16 of the Atlanta Thrashers skates after Andrew MacDonald #47 of the New York Islanders during an NHL hockey game at the Nassau Coliseum on March 24, 2011 in Uniondale, New York. (Photo by Paul Bereswill/Getty Imag

MacDonald has slowly matured into one of the more underrated rearguards in the NHL.

His commitment to defense has set the proper example for his fellow teammates, a major reason behind the Isles' decision to name him an assistant captain later in the season.

Perhaps he's due for a letter switch.

No. 4: John Tavares

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UNIONDALE, NY - APRIL 03: John Tavares #91 of the New York Islanders warms up before playing against the Ottawa Senators on April 3, 2010 at Nassau Coliseum in Uniondale, New York. (Photo by Jim McIsaac/Getty Images)

John Tavares is the face of the franchise, there's absolutely no question about that.

The first overall pick in the 2010 NHL Entry Draft, Tavares has definitely made an impact with his play over his first two seasons.

Maybe the Islanders will follow the trend set recently by Pittsburgh, Washington and Chicago, naming their "next one" as their captain.

No. 3: Kyle Okposo

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UNIONDALE, NY - MARCH 24: Kyle Okposo #21 of the New York Islanders skates during an NHL hockey game against the Atlanta Thrashers at the Nassau Coliseum on March 24, 2011 in Uniondale, New York. (Photo by Paul Bereswill/Getty Images)

Kyle Okposo is a natural leader and has made an excellent case to be just that for the Islanders.

He uses his size and strength to keep the puck on his stick, always back-checks and never gives up on the play.

There are many in Islander Country who have been clamoring for the franchise to give him the captaincy and, should they award him with a "C," he'll certainly have earned it.

No. 2: Mark Streit

Jim McIsaac/Getty Images

UNIONDALE, NY - MARCH 14: Mark Streit #2 of the New York Islanders skates against the Toronto Maple Leafs on March 14, 2010 at Nassau Coliseum in Uniondale, New York. The Isles defeated the Leafs 4-1. (Photo by Jim McIsaac/Getty Images)

From an experience standpoint, Mark Streit has the most of virtually anyone on this list.

After all, he has captained Team Switzerland at the Olympics, worn an "A" on Long Island and has been to the playoffs with Montreal.

His strong two-way play can serve as the right example for these young Islanders, especially if he gets the captain's "C."

No. 1: Frans Nielsen

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UNIONDALE, NY - MARCH 24: Frans Nielson #51 of the New York Islanders skates during an NHL hockey game against the Atlanta Thrashers at the Nassau Coliseum on March 24, 2011 in Uniondale, New York. (Photo by Paul Bereswill/Getty Images)

Frans Nielsen is my pick to become the next captain in the history of the New York Islanders because there's simply nothing he can't do.

Need a clutch shootout goal? Frans is there.

Effectiveness at both ends of the ice? Check.

Leadership skills? You bet.

He's easily one of the most underrated forwards in the game today and, is deserving of consideration for the Selke Trophy (best defensive forward).

It's time to hand him the keys.

Follow Daniel Friedman on Twitter: @nyifaceoff360

Comments are welcome.