The news reached the team on Monday afternoon, with Halloran bringing everyone together in the locker room before practice. He carried a weighty seriousness, one he reserved for matters of great importance — injuries, lineup changes, or anything that could alter the course of the season.
"Effective immediately, Ramirez will assume the role of captain for the remainder of the season," Halloran stated, without preamble or further explanation, as the room was already aware of the implications. "Ashford will remain on the roster, maintaining his full role and ice time. This is not a demotion; it is a structural decision. I expect this team to regard it as such—without drama, whisper campaigns, or any differential treatment towards either Ashford or Kellan compared to last week."
The room res
