Connor McDavid won’t turn 20 years old until January, but for months now, he’s been mentioned as a candidate to become the next captain of the Edmonton Oilers.
That, the young phenom forward has said before, would be a huge honor.
As Edmonton’s bench boss Todd McLellan pointed out already, the new Oilers captain will be determined during NHL training camp. While Team North America’s captain for the upcoming World Cup of Hockey is expected to be named this week. And yes, McDavid is a candidate for the position.
McDavid addressed that possibility on Wednesday, following a team practice in preparation for its first pre-tournament game against Team Europe in Quebec City on Thursday.
“If I were to wear the ‘C’ here it would obviously be good experience if I wear it in Edmonton,” said McDavid, as per video from Sportsnet. “I don’t want to comment too much on it. Obviously it would be a huge honor, but it would be a good trial run and good ... practice if it happens in Edmonton.”
It’s possible that some time within the next few weeks, McDavid -- already with the support from teammate Cam Talbot -- could become the youngest captain in the league’s history.
As for this tournament, Team North America is stacked with young talent. Are they the most intriguing team heading into the competition? You could make an argument for that.
Team North America’s captain would join an impressive list that includes the likes of Sidney Crosby (Canada), Anze Kopitar (Team Europe), Joe Pavelski (Team USA) and Alex Ovechkin (Team Russia).
The wait continues.