Ed Moran of the Daily News has reported that the Philadelphia Flyers will name their 17th captain tomorrow, and the name chosen was one everyone expected — Mike Richards.
Other names in the running were Kimmo Timonen and Simon Gagne, but Richards, only 23 years old, is a better fit and obvious choice.
Richards had a breakout season last year as an assistant captain, with a team-high 78 points. But what separates Richards from the other captain nominees is his ability to lead the Flyers with fisticuffs and physical play, all while still putting points on the board.
Richards has had success as a leader at every level. From 2003-2005, Mike was the captain of the Kitchener Rangers, a team he led to a 2003 Memorial cup.
Richards signed a 12-year contract extension last December.
Phila.Bright 