Mark Giordano gets dropped from the Seattle Kraken lineup despite a night dedicated to him
Last year, veteran defenseman Mark Giordano became the 32nd NHL franchise's first captain. He was already a seasoned leader, having captained the Calgary Flames for several seasons.
But it appears the Kraken will need a new "C" player. Coach Dave Hakstol says pending free agent Giordano won't play against the Tampa Bay Lightning tonight, fueling trade rumours.
Even more bizarre is the fact that tonight was Giordano's birthday.
«Many factors come into play,» Giordano said last month. 'Oh, I want to be out.' I don't want to request a trade. I enjoy going to the rink and being part of the team. But I realize there is a business side to this sport. I'll cross that bridge when it comes to it. I won't make up my mind until I talk to Ronny.»
"At my age, you realize time is ticking,» Giordano added. «You only get so many chances to win the Cup. That's my career goal now. It's all about that. We'll see.»
Giordano, 38, has six goals, 17 assists, and a -21 plus/minus rating in 55 games with the expansion Kraken this year. He played in his 1,000th game last week.
