Why did Brad Marchand aim at Tim Stützle during Ottawa Senators’ NHL leadership discussions

The search for a new captain for the Ottawa Senators has caught the attention of NHL teams, and Florida Panthers forward Brad Marchand has emerged as an unlikely name in the mix. Marchand posted on Instagram regarding Ottawa’s reported captaincy finalists and made a mocking comment about Tim Stützle.The comment came after the Ottawa Senators lost Brady Tkachuk, who was traded to the Florida Panthers on June 21 for four draft picks. Tim Stützle, Jake Sanderson and Thomas Chabot are said to be on the organization's radar for the role, with the captaincy now open. did Brad Marchand mock Tim Stützle and Ottawa Senators? Brad Marchand took a shot at Tim Stützle in reaction to an internet debate over the Ottawa Senators’ captaincy race, without explaining why he said it.A Senators leadership situation was highlighted on an Instagram account, Puckempire. Marchand shot back with a short message, laughing at the idea of Stützle being the next captain in Ottawa. The Florida Panthers forward didn’t offer any additional context or criticism with the comment.The reaction came after it was reported that Tim Stützle, Jake Sanderson and Thomas Chabot are the three frontrunners for the Ottawa Senators captaincy.Since arriving in the NHL, Stützle has become one of Ottawa’s most important offensive weapons. The 24-year-old center has also taken on a larger role within the team and sported an alternate captain’s “A” for stretches last season.That makes Marchand’s comment notable, but not the position of the Ottawa Senators organization. The captaincy decision is an internal matter that Ottawa Senators president of hockey operations Steve Staios and head coach Travis Green are expected to weigh in on.Tim Stützle is among the candidates for the vacant Ottawa Senators captaincy as his role continues to grow.The German-born center is a key part of Ottawa’s long-term plans. His growth as a more complete two-way player has only strengthened his case for more leadership responsibility.Jake Sanderson has a strong case as well because of his role on the blue line in Ottawa, but Thomas Chabot has much more experience and is the longest-serving Senator of the reported finalists.Now, Brad Marchand is a teammate of former Senators captain Brady Tkachuk with the Florida Panthers, so the veteran forward has a direct connection to the player who left to create the vacancy.Throughout his NHL career, Marchand has also been known for his abrasive comments and aggressive personality on and off the ice. The Stützle remark is consistent with the style that has followed him throughout his career, given his history of trying to get under opponents' skin.Who could become the next Ottawa Senators captain?The Ottawa Senators have yet to publicly call for a captain, with Tim Stützle, Jake Sanderson and Thomas Chabot reported as the frontrunners.The choice will be the 10th captain in franchise history. Marchand’s social media comment has sparked debate, but it’s expected to come down to Ottawa’s assessment of leadership, character, experience and long-term value to the franchise.Right now, the NHL conversation surrounding the Senators’ captaincy is focused on the three internal candidates rather than outside commentary. Marchand’s jab has added a little more attention to the debate, but it doesn’t change the decision Ottawa’s management faces.Get the latest Sports News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.