Luke Schenn has talked about stepping up to replace Tomas Kaberle, and in a way, he already has, wearing the “A” as alternate captain for the first time as a Toronto Maple Leaf.

The pre-game lineup handed out in the press box showed Schenn, the Leafs prized 21-year-old defenceman, will wear an A as alternate captain, replacing his now-departed playing partner.

Schenn has emerged as a leader on and off the ice. He leads all NHL defencemen in hits with 175 and is second on the team in blocked shots (118). But more importantly he has emerged as a voice of calm and reassurance in the dressing.

Before the game, coach Ron Wilson said he wasn't sure he would name an alternate, leaving just Dion Phaneuf and Mike Komisarek as on-ice leaders. And it may be temporary, with the injured Colby Armstrong another strong candidate for the A. And Wilson may start a rotation, which he has done before.

Also before the game, Schenn talked about missing Kaberle.

“I got the chance to play with him for three years and be his D partner for two of those years, so it's a little bit sad to have a close teammate and a friend go to another team,” said Schenn. “You wish him best of luck in Boston. We're going to have to step up.”