Anaheim Ducks: Hampus Lindholm Should be Considered as a Candidate for Alternate Captain

Passion and Commitment Gives Him the Extra Edge

I am a firm believer that good players are not necessarily a result of their skills, but a result of their heart. They are dedicated, committed to the cause, and they put their blood, sweat, and tears into improving. Hampus Lindholm, since day one, has been the epitome of what a player fueled by their passion looks like.

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He refuses to give up, even in the face of adversity. When things get tough, he presses forward with fire in his eyes. During each game, he plays to the best of his ability, and when he doesn’t, he gets back up and does whatever he can do to push and improve himself.

Over the past few seasons, the Anaheim Ducks have lacked passion in their lineup. There have been a select few players who come out onto the ice and give it everything they’ve got night in and night out. That will certainly change with the new coaching staff, but to break old habits, the team needs leaders who can reignite the team’s passion for the game.

Willingness to Accept Change & Ability to Adapt

From Lindholm’s first day with the Anaheim Ducks, things have been a lot different for him than they were while playing in Sweden. He’s had to deal with a slower system that lacks organization and consistency. Under the guidance of coaches like Bruce Boudreau and Randy Carlyle, he’s had to adapt his game to fit their mold better.

He was willing and able, even though it didn’t always make sense; another good sign of a leader. However, having two coaches who both promoted and taught an old style of hockey that was not conducive to success has hindered Lindholm from reaching his true potential. With the addition of Dallas Eakins to the coaching staff this season, this allows positive change for the entire team, especially Lindholm, and it will hopefully help him break out of his shell more.

Of course, the new season won’t come without its growing pains. The entire team is going to have to relearn new habits. The vets are going to have to adjust to a new system and playing alongside a core of younger bodies. The “Ducklings” are also going to need to continue to grow, learn, and figure out where they fit in at the NHL level.

Lindholm is the perfect player to bridge the gap and promote this positive change. He has spent the last several seasons playing alongside the likes of Ryan Getzlaf, Adam Henrique, Cam Fowler, and the rest. However, he’s still young enough that he can be considered relatable and approachable by the youth.

He has been the perfect example over the past few years of how to take challenges in stride and be resilient under the pressure. He’s had to adapt to a new way of thinking without losing himself and delaying his growth. His career in the NHL hasn’t always been easy, but he perseveres and presses forward for the benefit of his entire team.

Do you think the Anaheim Ducks should give Hampus Lindholm a chance to be a leader next season? Who are your candidates for the two alternate captain positions? Let us know your thoughts by leaving a comment down below!