NHL shockers: 7 Superstar players who've never worn the 'C' despite leading like captains
In the fast-paced world of the NHL, not all leaders wear the 'C' on their jerseys. Whether it's their on-ice dominance, locker room presence, or playoff heroics, each of these superstars embodies what it means to lead.
Despite never being officially handed the captaincy, they are the heartbeat of their teams and the kind of players teammates rally behind.
Nathan MacKinnon's TOP GOALS of 2024-25
Nathan MacKinnon runs the
Colorado Avalanche
without the letter
Nathan MacKinnon is the fire behind the Colorado Avalanche's success, a Hart Trophy winner and Stanley Cup champion. MacKinnon sets the tone every game, though Gabriel Landeskog wears the 'C,'. MacKinnon's competitive edge, intense leadership, and relentless drive make him the spiritual leader of the team.
Even when Landeskog was sidelined, MacKinnon didn't get the title, just the respect.
Evgeni Malkin has led the Pittsburgh Penguins through every battle
Evgeni Malkin's loyalty to the Pittsburgh Penguins has never wavered. Playing in Sidney Crosby's shadow hasn't stopped him from becoming one of the franchise's cornerstones. His emotional play, playoff dominance, and three Stanley Cups say it all. While Crosby officially leads the team, Malkin has always shared the leadership responsibilities in the locker room and on the ice.
by Taboola
by Taboola
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Drew Doughty powers the Los Angeles Kings with passion
Drew Doughty has been the soul of the Los Angeles Kings' defense for over a decade. With two Stanley Cups and a Norris Trophy, Doughty plays with intensity, honesty, and a never-back-down mentality. While Anze Kopitar wears the 'C,' it's Doughty's voice and energy that often spark the Kings, especially in high-pressure moments.
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Leon Draisaitl quietly leads behind Connor McDavid's spotlight
Leon Draisaitl is one of the NHL's most consistent offensive forces. In any other market, he'd likely be a captain already, but in Edmonton, he plays second fiddle to Connor McDavid; still, Draisaitl's elite talent and playoff performances.
And a composed demeanor speaks volumes; he's the kind of leader who doesn't need the 'C' to command attention or respect.
Bonus shoutouts: Kucherov, Kane, and Pastrnak deserve captaincy credit
Nikita Kucherov has helped build the Tampa Bay Lightning's dynasty with his brilliance. With Steven Stamkos now gone, many see Kucherov as Tampa's true heartbeat. Patrick Kane, who led the Chicago Blackhawks' Cup runs, has carried that presence to the Detroit Red Wings. David Pastrnak has long been Boston's most dynamic player; his joy and passion lift the entire room, and with Brad Marchand out, his captaincy moment might soon arrive.
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The captaincy in the National Hockey League may be stitched onto jerseys, but leadership runs deeper. For Nathan MacKinnon, Evgeni Malkin, Drew Doughty, Leon Draisaitl, Nikita Kucherov, Patrick Kane, and David Pastrnak, the absence of a letter has never meant a lack of influence. They are the leaders their teammates look to, even without the official title.
Also Read:
Five big NHL stars' names headline potential shakeups in the upcoming trade as teams look ahead to major roster decisions
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