The Youngest Captain in Franchise History
After the 1995-96 season, Randy Ladouceur announced his retirement. After two successful seasons with the Mighty Ducks, it came as no surprise when Paul Kariya was named as his successor.
At 22-years-old Paul Kariya was, and still is to this day, the youngest captain to be named in Mighty Ducks franchise history. During his first season at the helm, the young left-wing accomplished quite a feat.
Although he did not surpass the 100 point mark again, he still had an impressive season with 44 goals and 55 assists, for a total of 99 points. Aside from his point total, Paul Kariya was the first captain in franchise history to lead the Mighty Ducks of Anaheim to the playoffs.
Under his leadership, the Ducks went on to defeat the Arizona Coyotes in the Western Conference Quarter Finals, taking the series in Game 7. Moving on to the Semi-Finals, they faced their rivals, the Detroit Red Wings. Unfortunately, the Red Wings swept the Mighty Ducks and knocked them out of the playoffs. Paul Kariya, however, led the team with 13 points (7g, 6a) in 11 games.
He spent most of the 1997-98 season on the sidelines after he failed to come to contract terms with the Mighty Ducks. A concussion he received during a game with the San Jose Sharks prolonged his absence. Teemu Selanne stood in his place.
Coming back in the 1998-99 season, Kariya again led the Mighty Ducks to their second franchise playoff appearance against the Detroit Red Wings. During the regular season, he came back with a fervent spirit, posting 101 points (39g, 62a) in 82 games. Again, the Ducks were swept by the Red Wings.
PK9 was a phenomenal hockey player, that much is true. However, it takes much more than raw talent to lead a team. In his seven seasons as the Mighty Ducks captain, Paul Kariya led with humility, integrity, wisdom, and kindness.
He led by example, keeping a level head and pushing himself to always do better. He was never content with being stagnant. Those are the qualities of a leader and is a big reason why he held his post for so long. He has the second longest tenure as captain, only two seasons behind current Anaheim Ducks captain, Ryan Getzlaf.