As the NHL Trade Deadline looms on March 6th, the Vancouver Canucks are buzzing with trade rumors. But there's another storyline that's heating up: who will wear the captain's "C" for the Canucks next?
Enter Filip Hronek. The Canucks' president of hockey operations, Jim Rutherford, has hinted that Hronek might just be the man for the job.
“He’s been our best player this year,” Rutherford stated on 100% Hockey. “He’s a number one defenseman, a heart and soul guy.
Even in a tough season, Hronek has shined. He’s been terrific.”
When it comes to the captaincy, Rutherford added, “We haven’t made a decision yet; that will be a summer discussion. But in my opinion, he’s definitely on the short list.
He has all the qualities of a great captain. What you see on the ice is what you get off the ice-he’s a leader.”
Despite the Canucks' willingness to entertain trade talks for much of their roster, Hronek's name hasn't surfaced in those discussions. His agent, Allan Walsh, made it clear on his podcast that any trade talk involving Hronek is “wasted air.” Walsh emphasized, “There’s an understanding that Filip Hronek is part of the solution in Vancouver, not someone they’re looking to move.”
Could these behind-the-scenes conversations hint at Hronek being the next captain? Only time will tell, but it's certainly a storyline worth watching as the Canucks look to navigate their future.