Veteran Rob Blake named Sharks captain

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SAN JOSE, Calif. -- The San Jose Sharks announced that Rob Blake will be the team's captain this season, with Joe Thornton and Dan Boyle as the alternates.

Coach Todd McLellan took away the captainship from Patrick Marleau before training camp, saying he wanted to see who assumed the leadership before picking a replacement.

McLellan made his selection Wednesday, the day before the Sharks open the season against Colorado.

Marleau took heat after the Sharks were eliminated in the first round of the playoffs last season despite having the best record in the regular season. That marked the fourth straight year they were unable to get past the second round.

It's a shame about Marleau because he's a great guy and a great player. I still believe he should be the captain of the team despite the playoff results. Taking a "C" off someone's jersey isn't going to make you a better team.