Finally, it’s Erik with a ‘C’.

After spending training camp trying to settle the biggest debate in every kitchen, living room and on every bar stool in Ottawa, the Senators named Erik Karlsson the ninth captain on what turned out to be one of the most significant days in club history.

While Senators' owner Eugene Melnyk was thrilled after signing winger Bobby Ryan to a seven-year, $50.75 million extension, it may have been Karlsson who was wearing the widest smile after being crowned with the captaincy.

"It's probably going to take a while to sink in. I'm very excited and very honoured to have this opportunity," said Karlsson.

"It's nice that they trust me with this responsibility. All I can do is come here, be my best and be who I am."

Veteran defenceman Chris Phillips will remain in his role as an alternate captain along with winger Chris Neil.

Faced with the responsibility of taking over, Karlsson maintained the 'C' won't stand for change. He's learned from the likes of Daniel Alfredsson and Jason Spezza.

That's where it stops.

"I will never be Alfie. I will never be (Spezza). I have to be myself. I will lead in a different way than other players will. That's how it is for everyone," said Karlsson.

"You are who you are and I was fortunate to be around Alfie and learn from him. I can take the best things from him and also from (Spezza) along with Philly and Neiler as well. Being around those guys helps you to shape yourself into who you are."

The Senators weren't sure if they wanted to name a replacement for Spezza, who was dealt to Dallas on July 1.

I feel very excited and honored to be named captain today. Many good years to come. Thanks for all the support, fans family & friends — Erik Karlsson (@ErikKarlsson65) October 2, 2014

Karlsson asked for more responsibility during his exit meetings with Melnyk, GM Bryan Murray and coach Paul MacLean last spring. It's all part of Karlsson's growth as a player.

Though he wasn't at his best last season after coming off a devastating Achilles injury, Karlsson has been flying through training camp this month. His speed has returned and he's got a jump in his step.

"He's back where he can be as a player and I think he'll take off showing us he can help us be a really good team over the course of time," said Murray.

Karlsson is taking this seriously.

"It's an incredible opportunity and it's something that's very rare. It's not something that you can prepare for really," said Karlsson. "It's a little bit surprising and overwhelming.

"I'm excited about the next chapter and taking responsibility for what is to come. I'm really looking forward to everything that it has to bring. I'm excited about the team and the upcoming season."

It was no accident Karlsson spoke with Alfredsson on his way to the rink Thursday morning. The two were close friends during his time in Ottawa and saw each other during the summer.

Alfredsson, who is trying to decide whether he'll be able to continue because of a back injury, spoke with Karlsson from Detroit. The decision to name Karlsson captain came on the same day exactly 15 years ago when Alfredsson took the reign in 1999.

"We talk once or twice every week," Karlsson said. "I just called him to let him know what was going on and he was happy for me.

"He said he thought I would be ready for it and it would be a good thing for my career with this organization. Being able to be around him as a young player, even just from looking at him. I've been fortunate that way. I will take after him in certain areas."

Karlsson is a good guy with a strong sense of humour, but there was a point he sounded lost for words.

"I'm a little bit nervous actually as I don't know what to say," Karlsson said. "It's an honour to be a captain of a Canadian team and it's not something that I could have hoped for when I came here, but I embrace it and I'm looking forward to the responsibilities."

Now, people can debate whether Karlsson was the right choice. In the end, it was an easy decision.

Twitter: @sungarrioch

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Erik Karlsson is the ninth captain in the Senators history. Here is a list of the men who have skated before him and the years they served in the position. Not the club had three captain's during the 1993-94 campaign.

Laurie Boschman: 1992-93

Mark Lamb, Brad Shaw, Gord Dineen: 1993-94

Randy Cunneyworth: 1994-98

Alexei Yashin: 1998-99

Daniel Alfredsson: 1999-2013

Jason Spezza: 2013-14

Finally, it's Erik with a 'C'.

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