For most players, opening night is a mix of nerves and excitement. For New York Islanders forward Anders Lee, it is so much more.
On Thursday morning, during the Islanders’ pre-game meeting, Lee was named the fifteenth captain in franchise history. Speaking to the media, Barry Trotz called it a “clear” decision. After months of talking to players, it was clear that Lee had earned the respect of his teammates, Trotz said.
John Tavares vacated the captaincy when he bolted to Toronto on July 1. For months, it was unclear if the position would remain unfilled or if Trotz would name a successor.