New Captains Announced

The new Maverick captains were announced on Friday. Wearing the "C" will be senior forward Geoff Irwin, his assistants will be junior defenseman Channing Boe, and senior forward Kael Mouillierat. The captains were chosen following a three day team-building exercise led by MSU's ROTC program. A related article is found here.

A little about the three choices:

C - Geoff Irwin - In 102 career games with the Mavs, Irwin has 60 points (24 goals, 36 assists.) Aside from the scoring, Irwin makes his mark with his high-energy and consistent style of play. From my observation Irwin works harder than just about anyone. He's gritty, but by no means one-dimensional. Geoff defines what Jutting looks for in a forward, look for him to be a dependable player in 2009-2010.

A - Channing Boe - Is a consummate defensive defenseman. At 6'3" 210, he provides some much-needed size and physicality to the blueline corps, and he uses that size well. He can clear out the front of the net, and compliments some of the smaller, more offensive defenseman on the team. Channing suffered a broken leg last year and has done well in the offseason to get himself back in game shape. Boe will need to be a leader on the blue line this year, an area where some are skeptical. Barring injuries, however, I see no reason why this unit can't excel. 

A - Kael Mouillierat - Is probably the most potent offensive player on the team. He's got a knack for scoring goals and is an asset on the power-play. Last year he put up 30 points in 30 games. Of returning players, he leads the Mavericks in both career goals (36) and points (67.)  Last year down the stretch Mouillierat was lighting the lamp on a nightly basis, a true joy to watch. If Kael can stay healthy, look for him near the top of the league in the point department.

Overall, these are good selections. While I can't attest to the character of these guys off the ice, I know that each of them need to play up to their potential, and as leaders on the ice this year. More to come.