The Arizona Coyotes will make a crucial transition when Shane Doan chooses to call it a career, but Max Domi is the perfect candidate to lead the team into the future.
For the past 13 seasons, Shane Doan has been synonymous with the Arizona Coyotes, and with Arizona sports in general. He is the league’s longest-tenured captain, and one of its most respected players.
Those are big shoes to fill.
Fortunately, the Coyotes have leadership in spades, and that means there are a few good candidates to fill Doaner’s spot. However, none is a better fit for the job than Max Domi.
After an excellent rookie season (18g, 34a, 52pts), Max Domi has endeared himself to his teammates and coaches, affectionately earning recognition as a “Killer D.” He is exciting to watch, and his fun-loving personality is infectious.
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He has also had to deal with type-one diabetes since he was 12 years old. Despite his condition, he is quick to spin it into a positive if asked, saying that it is simply a challenge that has pushed him forward and made him better in the long run.
Max won’t let diabetes slow him down, and he doesn’t want it to stop anyone else either. He is very active in the community, speaking at events and encouraging other diabetics that they can still live normal lives and pursue their dreams.
That is exactly the kind of attitude a captain should have.
Teams have ups and downs throughout a season, and Domi’s level-headed approach is perfect for a team that will feature a lot of youth in the next few years.
Most importantly, Domi is incredibly humble and eager to learn from the team’s veterans. His selflessness and respect were on display all season, but never more so than in this moment:
Max Domi only has one season under his belt, but he is the embodiment of Coyotes hockey. He is speed, skill, grit, and passion all in one.
Those are the traits that resonate with fans.
They make him relatable, and that is why he should be the next face and captain of the franchise.
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Fortunately, Shane Doan isn’t quite ready to say goodbye (hopefully he will be the next Jaromir Jagr).
When the time comes, however, the Coyotes will be in good hands, especially if Max Domi is wearing the “C.”