Mikael Granlund was appointed captain in the NHL - GM praised him profusely

The Anaheim Ducks announced on Tuesday evening Finnish time that Finnish star Mikael Granlund is the team’s new captain.

Ducks GM Pat Verbeek praised Granlund in the club’s statement.

– Mikael has been a strong leader in our locker room and on his national team over the years, and he fits perfectly into this phase where our club is currently. Both our leadership group and coaching staff have seen how he leads by example and shows how a captain should behave on and off the ice. He represents professionalism, humility, guidance for others, and a calm presence, Verbeek describes.

Granlund, 34, has not previously served as a captain in the NHL. He has served as an alternate captain for the Nashville Predators and the San Jose Sharks.

– It is an incredible honor to be the captain of the Anaheim Ducks and to join many other great captains in the history of the organization. I am grateful to Pat, the coaching staff, and the other players in this locker room for trusting me with this responsibility. This team has many quality leaders and great teammates to support the entire group, Granlund said.

Granlund, who has served as captain of the Lions, is now starting his second season in Anaheim. He has played 960 NHL regular season games in his career.