San Jose Sharks Player Analysis: Logan Couture
By Coral Cannon
Logan Couture is undoubtedly one of the best, if not the best, first round draft pick to come out of the Doug Wilson era. His raw skill and talent have led many to believe in his potential as the face of the San Jose Sharks, perhaps destined to don the “C.”
At 26, Couture has plenty of game left in him. The past two seasons have been particularly telling, both on and off the ice.
During the 2013-14 season, Couture put up 54 points (23 G, 31 A) and finished the season a plus-21. The following season, he rose to 67 points (27 G, 40 A) but finished a minus-6.
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His numbers are great. Even when he experiences scoring droughts, he is still one of the better players on the ice, contributing in several ways.
I don’t think I need to remind fans of the team’s immensely productive offseason. Fresh faces in the locker room and an optimistic new coaching staff will definitely boost morale and hopefully contribute to a reign of terror in San Jose.
Jayne Kamin-Oncea-USA TODAY Sports
But just where does Logan Couture fit into all this?
The 2015-16 season will mark the second of a five-year contract for Couture. No doubt he will continue to find success on both ends of the ice. If Sharks fans are lucky, Couture will only ever play for team teal.
Eventually Joe Thornton and Patrick Marleau will retire and players like Joe Pavelski, Marc-Edouard Vlasic, and of course, Logan Couture, will take on a more significant role in the locker room.
Let me clarify what I mean by significant role. Vlasic and Pavelski have already rocked the “A” for San Jose and are obvious candidates for future captaincy. Both are excellent players that exhibit all the traits of a true leader.
Couture, on the other hand, I do not anticipate ever taking on the role of captain. This is not to say he doesn’t have the necessary traits on the ice. He absolutely does. So long as he avoids any slightly dirty penalties (slew foot, anyone?), his game is more than good enough to gain him a leadership role.
Off the ice is a slightly different story.
To say Couture is the most awkward interviewee in the locker room may be an understatement. His demeanor is noticeably melancholy following a tough loss and he tends to appear the most outwardly affected by adversity. Perhaps a little maturing could go a long way.
But hey, I’m an optimist and if there’s one Shark most likely to return with a vengeance season after season, it’s definitely Logan Couture. Emotion is essential to success and there is no doubt No. 39 takes each and every loss as reason to work even harder.
If Couture can turn any and all negativity into productivity while motivating his younger teammates, he may just lead the Sharks further than ever before.
Until then, expect Couture to wear an “A” at most.
Next: San Jose Sharks Player Analysis: Patrick Marleau