Predators Name Shea Weber Captain

Over their 11 years in the NHL, the Nashville Predators have done a lot of things right. They've made the playoffs five times, which isn't bad at all for an expansion franchise, especially one that has never been known for making a big splash in free agency or spending a lot of money on payroll. Overall, the Predators have posted six winning seasons in the NHL.

They've been a model of stability, thanks to general manager David Poile and head coach Barry Trotz. While they don't have millions of fans to draw from like other teams do, they draw good crowds in Nashville, and their loyal fans help create an interesting atmosphere at home games.

What they've never had -- before now -- is a home-grown captain.

Thursday, the Predators named defenseman Shea Weber the fifth captain in franchise history. Weber, 24, had a banner year for the Predators, leading defensemen on the team with 16 goals and 43 points. Not only that, but he was a main cog in the defense for gold-medal winning Team Canada in the Olympics.

"In addition to being one of the top young defenseman in the League today, Shea is a natural leader, and we are confident he has the respect of his teammates, opponents, the Predators organization and its fans," Poile said. "He becomes the first Predators draft pick to be named captain, and has been part of the culture and belief system we have worked hard to create."

Previous captain Jason Arnott was dealt to New Jersey after the season ended, and it seemed natural for Weber to take over. Arnott had been the captain since 2007. Before him, Kimmo Timonen -- now with Philadelphia -- had worn the "C" for the Predators. Tom Fitzgerald and Greg Johnson were the franchise's first two captains.

Weber has some big shoes to fill. Arnott was a consistent point producer, and he was obviously a good leader -- teams don't habitually let bad leaders be captain for three seasons. Now, the young defenseman with the big shot gets his chance to take over the room.

For the Predators, their long-standing tradition of leadership stability should continue. Weber is under contract with the Predators for two more seasons before he becomes a restricted free agent. They should be able to have him serve as captain for at least three years.