Puck's Shot: Obviously!

No Surprises in The Announcement

Mike Richards stepped into an "A" last season in a vote of confidence from coaching and management. After leading the team in scoring and being named the Most Awesomely Responsible-Looking Boyfriend by SportSquee for the 2007-08 season, it was time for his promotion to the "C." (And SportSquee's now featured him as the epitome of the Home Depot Husband.)

Simon Gagne wore an "A" last season while he played, too. As long as we keep him and he contributes to the bottom line, he'll stay in the running for a leadership role on the team.

Kimmo Timonen wore the "A" in 2007-08 when Gags was out. No surprise here, but lots of happiness and "about darn times" in Casa Flyers.Femme.


P.S.: I may have to reconsider the Richie Tshirt purchase this season. I like to go for less obvious selections, and with his captaincy confirmed, everybody and his/her grandmother will be buying that one.

"A" #1: Mike Richards

Flyers' Mike Richards (Getty Images)

First, a qualifier: Gator make a great captain. He was a good choice for the "C."

Mike Richards may wear an "A" on his jersey, but he's leading the team. Check out these statbits:

• With the assist on Knuble's goal last night, Richie has the same number of points as that guy Briere.
• However, more of those points come from goals rather than assists (9 G, 7 A).
• There have only been four games during the regular season where Richie hasn't earned a point.

Not bad for a guy who suffered an abdominal strain that required surgery last season, huh?

Scary statbit: With Richie only being 22, it makes you wonder what he's got up his sleeve for this season.

[Mike, I've seen that sly smile a few times in the interviews and when I was at practice last week. You gotta let me in on the secret!]

What interests me most: How much longer until Richie buries Briere?