Bo Horvat, who was traded to the New York Islanders a few days ago, has made his choice as to who will succeed him as Vancouver Canucks captain.
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• Also read: Bo Horvat moves to the Islanders, Quebecer Anthony Beauvillier sacrifices
The forward, who wore the letter “C” on his jersey from the 2019-2020 season, believes Elias Pettersson, with whom he will rub shoulders during Pacific Division practice at National League All-Star Weekend Hockey (NHL), is necessary fortune to take on this role. Even at the age of 24, the Swede already has a formidable background, having played 292 regular-season games overall and is one of the key players for the Canucks.
“If it were possible he would have my vote and I’m sure one day he’ll have the C on his chest,” Horvat predicted to NHL.com on Thursday. So I will be the happiest in the world for him when that happens as he will be an excellent captain.
“He’s continued to grow this year thanks to his leadership on the ice, he continued with the same source. He starts saying a few words in the dressing room and really takes control of the situation. I can’t compliment enough how he plays and how he takes care of him. He’s developing into a great leader and great player. I’m sure he’ll play an even bigger role than he does now.”
Stay strong
Despite those fine words, Pettersson will focus on the tasks his club wants to give him. Conditions are currently less favorable in Vancouver, where the local team is well positioned for sixth place in the Pacific Division with a 20-26-3 record. The Canucks will try to somehow end the campaign on the right foot, with head coach Rick Tocchet in charge, who replaced Bruce Boudreau in January.
“No matter what the team asks of me, I will do my best,” said Pettersson. I want to lead by example more because I’m not the most talkative. I like to lead the way with the quality of my game.”
Horvat traveled to Long Island on Monday in a deal that notably sent Quebecer Anthony Beauvillier to British Columbia. This season he has 31 goals and 23 assists for 54 points in 49 games. He is expected to make his debut with his new organization in Monday’s game against the Philadelphia Flyers.