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Anders Lee Named Islanders Captain

It didn’t take long for Barry Trotz to see what he had in #27.

New York Islanders v New York Rangers
The torch is passed.
Photo by Bruce Bennett/Getty Images

The New York Islanders announced this morning that Anders Lee has been named the 15th captain in franchise history.

This is pretty cool, frankly, and affirms the overall impression of Lee as a budding leader and spiritual center of the team.

Going back to his draft day, Lee was spoken of as potential “future captain material” and exhibited the mentality of a level-headed leader. It’s been a long road since that day — a very successful gap year in the USHL, three years at NCAA Notre Dame, time in AHL Bridgeport, some ups and downs in the NHL — but now the moment has arrived.

New coach Barry Trotz called it a no-brainer, “clear as day” choice:

Denis Potvin checked in with him, too.

He has one year left on his contract before potentially becoming an unrestricted free agent. But right now the focus is on this season, and this new role. Besides, we figured he’s one they’ll want to keep for precisely those qualities.

Congratulations to #27!