Report: John Tavares will be next Islanders captain

Photo: Robert Kowal After being picked first overall in the 2009 draft, John Tavares has become the face of the New York Islanders franchise. The 22-year-old center has become the team’s go-to center and is quickly becoming one of the top forwards in the league. Now, following the departure of defenseman Mark Streit, the window is open for Tavares to be named the team’s next captain. According to Newsday’s Arthur Staple, that assumption will be coming true next week, as the Islanders will name their captain next week. #Isles will have their new captain in place by the start of camp, I’m told — @91Tavares will be named early next week. — Arthur Staple (@StapeNewsday) September 3, 2013 Tavares accumulated 28 goals and 47 points in 48 games during last year’s lockout shortened season, leading the team in both of those statistical categories. Through four full seasons with the team, Tavares has 112 goals and 249 points. The Islanders have Tavares locked up for the long-term already, having signed a 6-year, $33 million extension back in 2011. Promoting Tavares to the captaincy would mean the Islanders will have to find a new assistant captain. As Pro Hockey Talk’s Mike Halford speculates, that “A” could go to defenseman Lubomir Visnovsky or center Frans Nielsen. Around the Rink Columnist Joe Ray - @joeray119 Follow us on Twitter - @ATRSportsKings Like us on Facebook - Around the Rink Find Joe on Google+