Welcome back to WDYTT, the only hockey column on the internet to truly span the generations.
Speaking of spans of generations, we’re aware we’ve got them going on in the comment section. The readership of this weekly column ranges from those who were there when the franchise began in 1970 – and before that, too – to those who weren’t even alive yet when Markus Naslund was playing.
It’s quite a range, and it often leads to a range of responses, for which we are grateful.
The variety of experiences present in our comment section can also sometimes allow for some really interesting polling as we attempt to tap into the differing eras of Vancouver Canucks hockey. This is one of those occasions.
The recent trade of Vasily Podkolzin puts a bit of a bow on the Jim Benning era of Canucks drafting. There were some highs; there were some lows. But it’s not the only era of Canucks drafting to have ever occurred, nor is it the only one to result in a largely mixed bag.
With that in mind, we thought we’d do some generational asking today. No matter how many NHL Entry Drafts you’ve been around for, you’ve undoubtedly got some highlights and lowlights in mind. Today, we want your perspective on the matter and your perspective alone.
This week, we’re asking:
Who are the best and worst Vancouver Canucks draft picks of your lifetime, in your opinion?
Let it be known in the comment section.
If the Canucks needed to name a new alternate captain from the current roster, who would you pick, and why?
You answered below!
dau:
They would probably want it to be someone that’s here long term, and I feel putting the ‘A’ on Debrusk might light a fire under him and help push him towards the consistency that he needs to find. If he can be consistent and plays on a line with Petey, the team is in a good spot.
Joe in Vancouver:
It (DeBrusk becoming alternate Captain) could be read as turning the page, too. You know, forward looking. I think it depends on who he is succeeding.
I like Dakota Joshua a lot (although he is no Zadorov) for alternate. He seems to be a Tocchet guy that can set the tone on the ice.
Killer Marmot:
Demko, and Rule 6.1 be buggered.
Jibsys:
(Winner of the author’s weekly award for eloquence)
This is an easy one for me. Tyler Myers. He has been with the team for a long time and cares deeply about the team, the province, and the city.
Every one in the dressing room looks up to big Tyler (joke intended) and he takes the time to speak to the media, thoughtfully answers questions, and is a leader. Despite any on-ice shortcomings, he is a dedicated warrior for this team, is very coachable, and does an excellent job leading by example.
BeerCan Boyd:
For sure it’s Myers. Not really any other serious candidates.
Hawks:
Myers was the first guy I thought of, as well. He is a respected player by his teammates. And he’s logged a lot of tough minutes for the team.
kanucked:
Brock Boeser is my choice. He’s well liked, been here a while and has become much more vocal. But, perhaps most importantly, he’s empathetic which allows the other players to come to him with challenges.
IBT:
It is clearly going to be someone with tenure and experience who will be with the team for a while. I like Boeser or Myers, both have battled through adversity, both are skilled and relevant players on the team. Myers seems better in an interview and is here for three more years.
Ryan B:
Boeser.
Craig Gowan:
I would be shocked if there were any change to the Hughes-Petey-Miller triumvirate. There certainly doesn’t need to be any additions — but if they added Assistant Captains, only Myers and Boeser spring to mind. Myers seems to have established himself as a veteran leader on the team. He handles the press very well. When injuries have occurred, he’s worn an “A” in the past. Boeser is the oldest member of the team in terms of Canucks longevity. He’s been a good player and is an agreeable personality who is fine with the press.
The Flying V:
I agree with Myers for already stated reasons, but if I had to chose a forward, I might go with Charlie Hustle, I mean the little Johnny Canuck guy, I mean Conor Garland.
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