Ryan Callahan Becomes the 26th Captain of the New York Rangers

"Come next October, Callahan will be wearing the 'C' on his jersey, mark my words".

That was a quote from an article I wrote during last season entitled "Why Ryan Callahan Should Be Made Captain". And I am so happy this prediction came true.

Ryan Callahan has been appointed the 26th captain of the New York Rangers, filling the void after veteran Chris Drury's contract left the position open. It was released today that Callahan would get the 'C' and both Brad Richards and Marc Staal would be getting the assistant captains. It has been a debate that has been going on non-stop since the word of Drury's buyout was in the works who should get the 'C', especially if your a member of the New York Rangers Group on Facebook, and there were rumors that it may be headed to newcomer Brad Richards for his experience and skill. But the Rangers went with what seemed like it fit, and that is Callahan.

Callahan has become the poster-boy for this new groups of young and talented Rangers. He exemplifies what it means to play in New York, and what is expected by his examples. Callahan showed he would do nearly anything to win last season after going down to injuries twice while trying to block shots from Kris Letang and Zdeno Chara. Not even the man who can shoot the hardest slapshot in the NHL strikes fear in the heart of Callahan, and that heart is what makes him such a perfect captain for the Rangers to have. He works 100% every single night, and will never ever quit.

So let this add to your new season excitement Rangers fans! Theres a new sheriff in town, and his name is Callahan.

Callahan Out For Season

In the hard fought game against the Bruins earlier this week, assistant captain Ryan Callahan took a slap-shot by none other then the monstrous Zdeno Chara that fractured his leg, and is said to be sidelined for the remainder of the season. Callahan was noticeably shook-up after taking the shot, but remained on the ice for the remainder of his shift.

Now, the Rangers are in a tough spot at the worst possible time. With the playoffs so close, and the race for the final two spots still up for grabs, the Rangers lose possibly their most valuable player.

The Rangers have been without Callahan for quite a stretch earlier this season after he broke his hand blocking a shot. The Rangers did not seem to waver that much in the loss of Callahan, but at a time like now where every point is necessary, it really creates a hole for the Rangers that is deep, but not uncontrollable.

The question that has been going around is: who is going to take Callahan's place? The Rangers have apparently moved defenseman Matt Gilroy to the wing to try and fill the hole. Another option for the Rangers could be Mats Zuccarello who was sent down earlier this week. the only question with Zuccarello would be is he big and durable enough to last the playoffs?

In all, this is a huge blow to the Rangers lineup, but not something that cannot be overcome. If the Flyers can make it to the Cup Finals on the back of six goaltenders last season, the Rangers can find a way to work past this injury. Stranger stuff has happened in the NHL.

Why Ryan Callahan Should Be Made Captain

Following up on yesterdays comments about me wishing Ryan Callahan should be made captain of the New York Rangers, I figured I would back up my reasoning today.

Now let the record show, I'm not going off one day of performance on my selection. I believe I touched on this in the article where I announced Drury's latest injury.

However, this is something that I feel needs to happen for the good of the team. I do not wish to bash Chris Drury's captaincy abilities, but I believe that his ship has sailed, and the team needs a fresh leader. This team has showed that they are on the brink of being a very good hockey team. One thing missing from their credentials however, is a captain who embodies the teams personality. The Rangers have grown into a full -blown "blue collar" team, that works for every goal, every possession, and you can just tell leaves everything on the ice when the game is done. Ryan Callahan has exhibited that persona from day one of this season.

A captain is someone who can be looked upon as a centerpiece, and a threat when other teams look at the team. Thats something that Chris Drury's zero goals and four assists on this season will not accomplish ever. Ever since his overtime winner in Pittsburgh, Ryan Callahan has exhibited poise, maturity, and skill in every game he has played. He has matured before the Gardens eyes, and its time he earned the prestige that comes with all of his hard work.

In my opinion, Drury's should be relieved as the captain for the Rangers before the playoffs start, which the Rangers WILL make. this shake up in the leadership could serve as a catalyst for the opposing team, as well as bolster and encourage the rest of the Rangers lineup.

However, my dreams are very unlikely, and Drury will probably remain in his captaincy for the rest of the season. But come next October, Callahan will be wearing the 'C' on his jersey, mark my words.