"The Blue Jackets acquired Ethan Moreau in part for his leadership skills. That point was reinforced yesterday when they named Moreau an alternate captain in advance of the season opener Friday against the San Jose Sharks. Moreau, a 35-year-old forward, joins R.J. Umberger as alternates to captain Rick Nash. Antoine Vermette will wear an "A" when Umberger or Moreau is not in the lineup. The coaching staff picked the alternates and, unlike seasons past, opted not to rotate them for home and road games. The decision to give Moreau the title is mildly surprising because he just joined the club. He is the former captain of the Edmonton Oilers. "I thought him having a letter on his jersey, and no disrespect to anyone else, was important," coach Scott Arniel said. "He's been a captain and he's been through a lot as a player and I think that experience can help our young group out. You don't bring in a defenseman and make him a left winger. He's a leader and he should be in the position to lead." Defenseman Kris Russell skated and could play this weekend after aggravating a right knee injury Tuesday in an exhibition game." Read more: http://www.bluejacketsxtra.com/live...eau-gets-an-a-in-first-year-here.html?sid=101
