Nolan Allan is the 46th captain in the history of the Prince Albert Raiders. (Jeff D'Andrea/paNOW Staff)

By Rob Mahon

Allan New Captain

‘It’s an honour’: Allan reacts to selection as Raiders captain

Oct 5, 2022 | 8:35 AM

When Nolan Allan first came into the WHL, he was an AP on what was soon to be a championship team that featured Brayden Pachal, Zack Hayes, and Kaiden Guhle, all of whom either were or would become captains. Now, Allan joins their ranks.

The Prince Albert Raiders announced their leadership group today, and Allan will be the 46^th captain in franchise history. Evan Herman, Landon Kosior, and Carson Latimer are his alternates.

“It’s an honour to be able to lead this group that we have here,” Allan said. “This organization, all the leaders that have come before me, it’s truly an honour.”

Last season, Allan was named the team’s MVP after posting 41 points in 65 games from the back end. His play on the other side of the puck, blocking shots and throwing heavy hits, also played into his value to the team.

“He’s a solid defending defenseman, he’s got some offense as well, he’s got a great presence in the room,” said head coach Jeff Truitt. “I know he’s got the respect in there, and the cherry on top is being a first-round draft pick. He’s seen what other dressing rooms do at a higher level and can bring that here.”

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In Allan’s rookie season, the Raiders were captained by Hayes, followed by Guhle and later Reece Vitelli. Allan has had plenty of leaders to learn from in his time with the Raiders.

“All of those guys led in different ways,” said Allan. “Some were louder than others and they had their different ways of leading. I think taking things from each guy and trying to implement that into my style is the best way to do it.”

Truitt pointed out that Allan, Latimer, and Kosior have all recently returned from NHL camps, so he expects them to pass on some of what they were learning at higher levels of hockey. Allan agreed he’d be bringing back some special advice for the young players.

“The pace of play, the pro mentality, how they come to the rink every day prepared to do their jobs and play their roles,” Allan said. “I think that’s the biggest part and that’s what I’m going to help bring.”

During Allan’s absence while he was at camp with the Blackhawks, the Raiders had several other players involved in a leadership rotation, including forward Sloan Stanick and defenseman Eric Johnston. It meant the coaching staff had plenty of names to choose from for their official group of leaders.

“As part of our leadership group, we’ve got eight guys who come in and talk about things,” said Truitt. “Those guys understand that they have a voice because they are part of a bigger leadership group than the four guys named as captains. Those guys are important as well.”

The next action for the Raiders comes on Wednesday, Oct. 5 when they host the Lethbridge Hurricanes. Puck drop is 7:00 p.m.

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rob.mahon@pattisonmedia.com

On Twitter: @RobMahonPxP