Unlike previous seasons, the Chicago Blackhawks won't have a captain to start the 2023-2024 season. The team will be without a captain for the first time since 2007-2008 because Jonathan Toews was not offered a contract.
As a mark of respect for Jonathan Toews, the team should not name a captain but instead consider an alternate. As part of the Blackhawks dynasty, Toews played more than 1,000 games and won three cups.
There are plenty of names who could afford to get a letter, with the recent additions of Nick Foligno, Corey Perry, and Taylor Hall. Additionally, Seth Jones, Connor Murphy, and Connor Bedard are legitimate options.
Since Foligno welcomed Bedard into the team, he could already be considered an organic leader. There are many options and many players who have been here long-term who deserve a letter, that's why multiple players should have the opportunity to win over the room.