WINNIPEG — The Winnipeg Jets have chosen Blake Wheeler to be their newest captain.
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The eight-year NHL veteran forward takes over the role that has sat vacant since Andrew Ladd was traded to the Chicago Blackhawks in February. Wheeler led the Jets with 78 points in 82 games last season.
“The most important thing is to lead by example,” said Wheeler.
“To show up everyday and do what I’ve done. I felt ready for it. It felt like the natural progression of things.”
Wheeler becomes the ninth captain in the history of the Jets-Atlanta Thrashers franchise. Since the team moved to Winnipeg, Ladd has been its only leader.
Captain Chronicle
- Kelly Buchberger 1999-2000
- Steve Staios 2000-2001
- Ray Ferraro 2001-2002
- Shawn McEachern 2002-2004
- Scott Mellanby 2005-2007
- Bobby Holik 2007-2008
- Ilya Kovalchuk 2009-2010
- Andrew Ladd 2010-2016
- Blake Wheeler 2016-present
“(He’s) a tremendous guy, a tremendous hockey player and a tremendous family man,” said Jets General Manager Kevin Cheveldayoff.
“He’s grown in so many different areas.”
Maturity the Jets believe will help their younger players take off.
“Because of the age of our team and the excitement where this team is next year, who’s driving this team right now is really important,” said Jets Head Coach Paul Maurice.
Mark Scheifele and Dustin Byfuglien were named as alternate captains.