Its time for Richards to get the "C"
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by Difranflyer
With all the talk on who the next captain should be for the vastly improved Philadelphia Flyers. I believe it they should stop all of the confusion about who it's going to be whether its Gagne, Briere, Timmonen, Kapanen, or Smith. It should finally go to the man they originally said would be the teams captain, Mike Richards. Since this team has already rebuilt then you mine as well give the team to a young leader who will lead by example and words.
Mike Richards will step up this year and be the player that he hyped up to be. He showed signs at the end of last season coming off his injuries that he has what it takes to be a leader and offense and defense producer. He can play both ends of the ice and give 100% all game long, no matter how long he's been on the ice. I know that Richards won't get the coveted "C" on his vest but I think he deserves serious consideration. I spoke with people around the Flyers, and they think highly of Richards, highly enough that at 22 he's already in the leadership commitee with players such as Gagne, Kapanen, and now Timmonen and Briere.
Do I think it might be too early to promote him already? No, I think he's ready because Richards is driven, a born leader. Mike is a student of the game and nobody has more heart on that ice than Mike Richards. I'm not going to be upset if he doesn't get the captaincy, but I would appreciate hearing that he was atleast mentioned or being considered when it comes to who gets it. The Flyers should make the decision quick, before training camp because I think it would a good idea for this team to gel together before training camp.
Whom ever the will be, when he gets the nod for the "C," he should immediately plan something that has to do with the entire team. With the new additions and bulk of young and experienced verterans all with major talent, this team should focus quickly and quietly on how to get to know each other fast and easy. If and when this happens, it will only better their chances at getting back to where they belong and that's atop the Eastern Conference!
