"Shouldn't even be a debate": NHL fans hail Victor Hedman as Tampa Bay Lightning's next undisputed captain after Stamkos exit

Victor Hedman seems to be the fans' favorite to become the next captain of the Tampa Bay Lightning. With Steven Stamkos leaving in free agency after leading the team for a decade, the Lightning now need a new leader. Stamkos helped the team reach three Stanley Cup Finals and win two championships, so replacing him won’t be easy.

Many believe Hedman is the right person for the job. Since being drafted in 2009, he has been a key player for the team. His leadership, along with awards like the Norris and Conn Smythe trophies, makes him a strong candidate. He also recently signed a contract extension through 2029.

The NHL led the conversation by asking fans on X (formerly Twitter) who should wear the "C" for the Lightning. Other names mentioned include Brandon Hagel, Brayden Point, and former captain Ryan McDonagh, but most fans see Hedman as the best choice.

After the NHL post, fans quickly reacted to it on X.

"Definitely Hedman. Shouldn't even be a debate," one fan said.

"have to go with Hedman. The Big D guys that have stuck with teams in good and bad times make great captains. Every player respects VH," another fan commented.

"Victor Hedman - My Fav Swede," one X user said.

Take a look at some more reactions from NHL fans on X. While Hedman was still the popular choice, Brandon Hagel also got some love.

"Heddy now, then Bagel when Heddy retires," a fan said.

"I mean, it’s Hedman right? That’s the very easy and logical answer," a fan tweeted.

"Brandon Hagel is a hockey player. Hedman captain. But Hagel gets an A for sure," one fan commented.

Victor Hedman confident Tampa Bay Lightning can compete for Stanley Cup after roster changes

Victor Hedman believes the Tampa Bay Lightning can still compete for the Stanley Cup despite some roster changes. At the NHL North American Player Media Tour, he discussed the challenges ahead, especially losing long-time captain Steven Stamkos.

Stamkos signed with the Nashville Predators after 16 seasons with the Tampa Bay Lightning. Hedman called him the best player in franchise history and said his presence will be missed.

“...But the person himself is going to be missed in the locker room and on the road, everywhere. It’s going to be a lot different going into the locker room and not seeing him,” Hedman said per NHL.com.

The Lightning signed forwards Jake Guentzel and Cam Atkinson and brought back defenseman Ryan McDonagh. Hedman said it's important to help new players fit in quickly, especially with the Atlantic Division getting tougher.

Hedman mentioned the Florida Panthers, last season's Cup champions, as tough competition. Despite challenges, he believes the Tampa Bay Lightning can still win but shared they must "hit the ground running."