Thornton can't play centre anymore....or really left wing. Forget this veteran leadership nonsense. Even Chara seems to have the plus 40 wall.

Schneider is not ready, Lundkvist is

true.. totally forgot about nils... he should definitely be there instead of schneids

I think its more about the establishment of a winning culture more than anything and having these guys that have been around for so long and been successful, giving guidance to these young kids and showing them what it takes day in and day out. Big Z has shown that when he is in a limited role he can still be very effective. For Jumbo Joe same thing.. he brings the veteran presence and professionalism as well as the snarl. It doesnt have to be huge minutes per night for them or even playing on an every night basis, sheltered roles so that these two amazing former captains can bring the leadership these kids need and for the contracts that they have, its a low risk high reward situation.

as sad as it is I think Jumbo Joe retires in the offseason