Derek MacKenzie’s contract is up after the 2018-19 season. The Florida Panthers should start to look at replacements for team captain. One in particular who should be considered is Vincent Trocheck.

Not only is Trocheck a good player, but also a leader. Vinnie leads by example both on and off the ice, no matter who he’s around. The next captain for the Panthers should be one of our young guys and there shouldn’t be any questioning in regards to Trocheck.

Vinnie displays multiple characteristics while on the ice. In one aspect, when you need him to go out and get you a goal, you’ll be certain to see him working his tail off in the corner fetching and cycling down low. If you’re up by a goal and need to preserve the lead, look no further than to Trocheck. He can play in all three zones of the ice, including the defensive zone.

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When you’re on the power play and in need of a goal, he is also someone you can rely upon to get the puck to the net. He can also carry the puck from one zone to another with ease. On the penalty kill, Vinnie is a feisty player who isn’t afraid getting in your face. He can break up your power play set up and cause problems for you. Simply, when he needs to be fancy, he can be fancy. When he needs to roll up his sleeves and get his hands dirty, he can do just that.

He isn’t a player looking to have a field day in terms of personal stats. Trocheck is a team first player who will put the team in front of his own needs and wants. This is the mentality the Cats need to look for, when selecting next captain. The fact that a guy Vinnie’s size (5’10) can go out and drop the gloves when needed is also incredible. There aren’t many guys his size who would do such a thing.

He poses many traits that show signs of a real leader and true captain. The role of a “captain” does not always have to be the most skilled player on the team. It should be the individual who possess the best leadership skills both on and off the ice. Vinnie is certainly one, but others like Huberdeau and Ekblad should also be considered for the position as well.

Trocheck is honestly a warrior, and would sacrifice anything/everything in order to win. His work rate, commitment, and drive shouldn’t be overlooked, as they are all virtues/characteristic’s a true captain holds. The next captaincy vote won’t be until after the 2018-19 season when MacKenzie’s contract comes to an end. It’ll likely be the time in which Dale changes our captain and looks towards one of our young guns to fill the role.

Overall, when the times comes towards replacing Derek as captain, Vincent Trocheck is one player who should be looked at and considered for the role.