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Wednesday, October 1, 2008

Malkin will wear A, will Orpik too?

http://www.pittsburghlive.com/x/pittsburghtrib/sports/penguins/s_591060.html?source=rss&feed=8

Malkin has said that he will be wearing an "A" this season, but for the first month. He said they will be rotating. The team has not made an official announcement, but said one will be made this weekend. Malkin also says there will be "no problem" with him speaking to officials, something only a captain and alternate captains can do during a game.
It is also a possibility that Orpik will be wearing an "A" this season, perhaps permanently or rotational, for his leadership skills in the locker room.
I believe Malkin can handle being an Alternate captain and do I see him speaking a lot to the officials? Probably not, because he may not wish to at times and yes, he may be a little uncomfortable with some of the English. However, the truth is, without Gonchar helping him with translating now, Malkin will need to be speaking English even more and this can only help him to become more comfortable speaking English and more confident when speaking it as well.
As for Orpik getting an "A," I believe it is great! He is a great candidate because of his character and leadership and him signing the long term deal this summer showed his dedication to Pittsburgh and the Penguins and that dedication can be turned into an "A" on his jersey.

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