The Kraken's announcement comes on the night of their home opener against the St. Louis Blues. Fans will have a great opportunity to give a loud and warm welcome to their new captain.
Now 34 years old, Jordan Eberle was drafted by the Edmonton Oilers in the first round of 2008. Eberle went on to play the first 7 seasons of his career with the Oilers, always being a productive scorer by nearing a 30 goal pace. He became a fan favourite player in Edmonton for his skill and his easy going off-ice personality. In the offseason of 2017, the Oilers traded Eberle to the New York Islanders for Ryan Strome.
Eberle was then claimed by the Kraken in the expansion draft, and is one of a handful of players that's been around for all three years of the franchise's history. In Seattle, he's been equally a productive scorer of near 20 goals a year, and has been an important veteran presence for the young team.
Along with defenceman Adam Larsson, the two former Oilers will serve as the major leaders for the Kraken this year. Unfortunately for them, Seattle may not be a competitive team at all. Insiders have ranked the Pacific Division the worst in the NHL this year, with Seattle a contender to finish last place in the league.
It's a cool sight for many Oilers fans that have watched Eberle grow from his amazing World Junior Performances to being a veteran leader in the NHL. When they're not playing the Kraken, plenty of Oilers fans will be cheering Eberle on in his first season as Captain this year.
POLL | ||
Did you think that Jordan Eberle could be a team captain? | ||
Yes, always a great player | 90 | 69.8 % |
No, didn't think so | 38 | 29.5 % |
See Results | 1 | 0.8 % |
List of polls |