With the departure of Brayden Schenn at the trade deadline back in March, the St. Louis Blues are without a captain. There are a number of likely candidates, with one being the overwhelming majority vote.
That would be Robert Thomas. But, as it stands right now, there is no guarantee that he would get the "C", now or in the future.
Let's talk about why.
Going to be a while for the next captain
The Blues are not in a position yet to name their next captain. Sure, Thomas is an easy answer, and could be the right one. But, there are so many other names on this roster that could be given the honor.
Jake Neighbours is probably the second most likely candidate, and fans are really behind him to don the "C" next. His playstyle and demeanor on the ice mirror that of Schenn, and his brash physicality alongside solid offensive performance is enough to label him as a complete package.
It is just way too early to tell who should be the next captain, but Thomas is not the right choice yet.
Captain might not be on this roster yet
It is also important to understand that there is a chance that the next captain of this team might not be on the main roster yet. With the influx of prospects coming in and awaiting to be drafted in the upcoming draft at the end of the month, one of them could be the next captain.
Namely Justin Carbonneau or Adam Jiricek. Both are highly talented players that could grow into the leadership role. Additionally, Jimmy Snuggerud and Dalibor Dvorsky were both under Schenn's wing a lot last season, and that could have some impact on their career trajectory as well.
When the Blues come back around to being contenders once again, there is going to be a time to buy in on a free agent or two, or make a trade to bring in a top talent. Wouldn't it be something to see either Brady or Matthew Tkachuk one-up their father, Keith, in assuming the role as Blues captain.
Add us as a preferred source on Google